At least 75 Indian nationals were safely evacuated from Syria where the Islamist rebels have toppled President Bashar al-Assad and are set to form their own government.

India's Ministry of External Affairs said the 75 nationals had crossed over to Lebanon and will return via commercial flights.

"The evacuees included 44 'zaireen' from Jammu and Kashmir who were stranded at Saida Zainab," the MEA said in a statement.

"The evacuation, coordinated by the embassies of India in Damascus and Beirut, was put into effect following our assessment of the security situation and requests from Indian nationals in Syria. The Indian government accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad," the ministry added.

The ministry further advised the Indian nationals in Syria to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus.

"Indian nationals remaining in Syria are advised to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID ([email protected]) for updates. The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely," the statement stated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-conflict-rebels-name-mohammed-al-bashir-as-head-of-transitional-govt-782998">Syrian conflict: Rebels name Mohammed al-Bashir as head of transitional govt</a>

<h2>Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes</h2>

Syria's Islamist rebel leader has pledged to hold accountable former senior government officials for torture and war crimes.&nbsp;

This comes on the heels of talks on transferring power after President Bashar al-Assad's ouster.&nbsp;

Al-Jolani, who is now using his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, promised to offer rewards to anyone providing information about senior army and security officers involved in war crimes.&nbsp;

"We will not hesitate to hold accountable the criminals, murderers, security and army officers involved in torturing the Syrian people," Al-Jolani said in a statement on Telegram on Tuesday (Dec 10).

"We will offer rewards to anyone who provides information about senior army and security officers involved in war crimes," he said.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel Hits Major Air Bases Across Syria

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He further said that his incoming administration aims to ensure the return of officials who have fled abroad.

Al-Jolani Sharaa held talks with outgoing prime minister Mohammed al-Jalali on Monday (Dec 9) "to coordinate a transfer of power that guarantees the provision of services" to Syria's people, as per an earlier statement on Telegram.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 75 Indian nationals were safely evacuated from Syria where the Islamist rebels have toppled President Bashar al-Assad and are set to form their own government.

At least 75 Indian nationals were safely evacuated from Syria where the Islamist rebels have toppled President Bashar al-Assad and are set to form their own government. India's Ministry of External Affairs said the 75 nationals had crossed over to Lebanon and will return via commercial flights. "The evacuees included 44 'zaireen' from Jammu and Kashmir who were stranded at Saida Zainab," the MEA said in a statement. "The evacuation, coordinated by the embassies of India in Damascus and Beirut, was put into effect following our assessment of the security situation and requests from Indian nationals in Syria. The Indian government accords the highest priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad," the ministry added. The ministry further advised the Indian nationals in Syria to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus. "Indian nationals remaining in Syria are advised to stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) and email ID ([email protected]) for updates. The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely," the statement stated. Also read: Syrian conflict: Rebels name Mohammed al-Bashir as head of transitional govt Syria Islamist rebel leader vows to hold accountable former officials for war crimes Syria's Islamist rebel leader has pledged to hold accountable former senior government officials for torture and war crimes. This comes on the heels of talks on transferring power after President Bashar al-Assad's ouster. Al-Jolani, who is now using his real name Ahmed al-Sharaa, promised to offer rewards to anyone providing information about senior army and security officers involved in war crimes. "We will not hesitate to hold accountable the criminals, murderers, security and army officers involved in torturing the Syrian people," Al-Jolani said in a statement on Telegram on Tuesday (Dec 10). "We will offer rewards to anyone who provides information about senior army and security officers involved in war crimes," he said. WATCH | Israel Hits Major Air Bases Across Syria × He further said that his incoming administration aims to ensure the return of officials who have fled abroad. Al-Jolani Sharaa held talks with outgoing prime minister Mohammed al-Jalali on Monday (Dec 9) "to coordinate a transfer of power that guarantees the provision of services" to Syria's people, as per an earlier statement on Telegram. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

India evacuates 75 nationals from Syria after rebels toppled Assad's regime

A cold wave has swept across the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. It was further intensified due to clear skies with the city of Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 5.4 degree Celsius. Kashmir and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the region are recorded below freezing point.

South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the second lowest temperature in Kashmir Valley at minus 8.1 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.4 degrees Celsius while the Shopian district was at minus 8.5 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus nine degrees Celsius and Sonamarg Tourist resort was the coldest in the Valley at minus 9.7 degrees Celsius. &nbsp;

South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.3 degrees Celsius. Bandipora was at minus 5.5 degrees Celsius and Baramulla was at minus 5.1 degrees Celsius.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-six-dead-in-mumbai-bus-crash-detained-driver-blames-brake-failure-782817">Video: Six dead in Mumbai bus crash, detained driver blames brake failure</a>

Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The Leh town recorded seasons lowest at minus 13.2 degrees Celsius. The Zojila which connects Ladakh region to Jammu and Kashmir recorded the minimum temperature at minus 21 degrees Celsius.

WATCH |&nbsp;Cold Wave Grips Kashmir: Srinagar Records Season’s Coldest Night At Minus 5.4 Degree Celsius

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The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted the La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow.&nbsp;

The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will prolong and be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as bring rain and snow. As we head towards the ‘Chillai Kalan’, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the Valley.&nbsp;

The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather from December 10 to December 11. There are chances of snow from December 12 to 13. The weather will again be dry from December 13 to December 18, which means a further dip in the temperature.&nbsp;

A cold wave has swept across the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. It was further intensified due to clear skies with the city of Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 5.

A cold wave has swept across the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. It was further intensified due to clear skies with the city of Srinagar recording the season's lowest temperature at minus 5.4 degree Celsius. Kashmir and Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under excruciating cold waves and the temperatures across the region are recorded below freezing point. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the second lowest temperature in Kashmir Valley at minus 8.1 degrees Celsius. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.4 degrees Celsius while the Shopian district was at minus 8.5 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus nine degrees Celsius and Sonamarg Tourist resort was the coldest in the Valley at minus 9.7 degrees Celsius. South Kashmir's Pulwama district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 8.3 degrees Celsius. Bandipora was at minus 5.5 degrees Celsius and Baramulla was at minus 5.1 degrees Celsius. Also read: Video: Six dead in Mumbai bus crash, detained driver blames brake failure Ladakh region has been battling the cold wave as well. The Leh town recorded seasons lowest at minus 13.2 degrees Celsius. The Zojila which connects Ladakh region to Jammu and Kashmir recorded the minimum temperature at minus 21 degrees Celsius. WATCH | Cold Wave Grips Kashmir: Srinagar Records Season’s Coldest Night At Minus 5.4 Degree Celsius × The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted the La Nina effect which means cooler than average sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern Pacific. This weather change mostly impacts the wind circulation patterns leading to more rains and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will prolong and be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as bring rain and snow. As we head towards the ‘Chillai Kalan’, which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the Valley. The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather from December 10 to December 11. There are chances of snow from December 12 to 13. The weather will again be dry from December 13 to December 18, which means a further dip in the temperature.

India: Srinagar records season's lowest temp at minus 5.4 degree Celsius

India on Monday (Dec. 9) released a statement saying that it is monitoring the situation in Syria, further calling for peace and stability in the region.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the immediate need for all parties to work towards preserving the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Syria.&nbsp;

"We are monitoring the situation in Syria in the light of ongoing developments. We underline the need for all parties to work towards preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We advocate a peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led political process respecting the interests and aspirations of all sections of Syrian society," the MEA statement read.

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&nbsp;

It also said that India's Embassy in Damascus was in contact with the Indian community for their safety and security.

After a series of offensives, Syrian rebel factions announced on Sunday (Dec. 8) on state television that they have successfully overthrown President Bashar al-Assad and have freed "unjustly detained" prisoners.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-hails-falls-of-assads-regime-in-syria-calls-it-historic-act-of-justice-782589">Biden hails fall of Assad's regime in Syria, but warns terrorists among rebels</a>

In their address, they referred to Assad as a "tyrant" and urged for the protection of state property.&nbsp;

The development came after a wave of intense clashes and strategic advancements by the rebel forces in Damascus and surrounding areas.

A group of rebels appeared on state TV and announced the liberation of the city of Damascus, the fall of Assad, and the release of 'unjustly detained' people from the regime prisons, reading a statement from the Damascus Conquest operations room.

The rebels called on fighters and citizens to safeguard the "property of the free Syrian state".

Earlier, on Dec. 6, the Indian government also issued a travel advisory for Syria, urging people to avoid travel to Syria until further notice.

"In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification," the Ministry of External Affairs stated.

"Indians currently in Syria are requested to remain in touch with Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number (also on WhatsApp) and email ID [email protected] for updates. Those who can, are advised to leave by the earliest available commercial flights and others are requested to observe utmost precaution about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Monday (Dec. 9) released a statement saying that it is monitoring the situation in Syria, further calling for peace and stability in the region. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the immediate need for all parties to work towards preserving the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Syria.

India on Monday (Dec. 9) released a statement saying that it is monitoring the situation in Syria, further calling for peace and stability in the region. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the immediate need for all parties to work towards preserving the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Syria. "We are monitoring the situation in Syria in the light of ongoing developments. We underline the need for all parties to work towards preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We advocate a peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led political process respecting the interests and aspirations of all sections of Syrian society," the MEA statement read. We are monitoring the situation in Syria in light of ongoing developments. We underline the need for all parties to work towards preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. We advocate a peaceful and inclusive Syrian-led political process respecting the… pic.twitter.com/ENFGIIHML4 — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2024 × It also said that India's Embassy in Damascus was in contact with the Indian community for their safety and security. After a series of offensives, Syrian rebel factions announced on Sunday (Dec. 8) on state television that they have successfully overthrown President Bashar al-Assad and have freed "unjustly detained" prisoners. Also read: Biden hails fall of Assad's regime in Syria, but warns terrorists among rebels In their address, they referred to Assad as a "tyrant" and urged for the protection of state property. The development came after a wave of intense clashes and strategic advancements by the rebel forces in Damascus and surrounding areas. A group of rebels appeared on state TV and announced the liberation of the city of Damascus, the fall of Assad, and the release of 'unjustly detained' people from the regime prisons, reading a statement from the Damascus Conquest operations room. The rebels called on fighters and citizens to safeguard the "property of the free Syrian state". Earlier, on Dec. 6, the Indian government also issued a travel advisory for Syria, urging people to avoid travel to Syria until further notice. "In view of the situation prevailing in Syria, Indian nationals are advised to avoid all travel to Syria, until further notification," the Ministry of External Affairs stated. "Indians currently in Syria are requested to remain in touch with Indian Embassy in Damascus at their emergency helpline number (also on WhatsApp) and email ID [email protected] for updates. Those who can, are advised to leave by the earliest available commercial flights and others are requested to observe utmost precaution about their safety and restrict their movements to the minimum," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

India calls for preserving unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria after Assad's ouster

The higher reaches and tourist spots of Kashmir Valley received a fresh spell of snowfall, spreading a lot of cheer among the visiting tourists. The plains continued to reel under severe cold wave conditions. Tourist&nbsp;places like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Doodhpathri, and the higher reaches of North Kashmir received fresh spells of snowfall.&nbsp;

Due to the fresh snowfall in the region, the road that connects Ladakh to Jammu and Kashmir has been closed to traffic due to the accumulation of snow. The Mughal Road and Sinthan Road have also been closed for vehicular movement by the traffic department of Jammu and Kashmir Police due to the fresh spell of snowfall. Men and machinery have been deployed to clear the roads for traffic at all the places. But the tourists visiting the valley are enjoying the fresh snowfall.&nbsp;

''I had come to Kashmir Valley only to witness snow, and I feel lucky that I got to see the snowfall in Gulmarg. It's nothing less than a winter wonderland. I am waiting for more snow as I am staying for a few more days, '' said Aakash Arora, a tourist.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-navy-captures-two-boats-apprehends-eight-indian-fishermen-782562">Sri Lankan Navy apprehends eight Indian fishermen, captures two boats</a>

The whole of Kashmir and the Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under extreme cold waves, and the temperatures across the division are below freezing point. Srinagar City recorded the temperatures at minus 3.3 degrees.&nbsp;

South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the second lowest temperature in Kashmir Valley at minus 7.9 degrees. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6.8 degrees while the Shopian district was at minus 7.5 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 9 degrees, becoming the coldest in the Kashmir Division.&nbsp;

The tourist resort Sonamarg also recorded the season's minimum at minus 7 degrees. Pulwama recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6.7 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 4.1, and Baramulla was at minus 4.2 degrees.&nbsp;

The temperature recorded at Nyoma Village in Ladakh dropped to below minus 12.7 degrees. While Leh town recorded the season's lowest at minus 12.8 degrees. The Zojila, which connects the Ladakh region to Jammu and Kashmir, recorded the minimum temperature at minus 20 degrees.

The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted that the La Nina effect will have&nbsp;an impact&nbsp;with the wind circulation patterns leading to more rain&nbsp;and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will prolong and will be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rains and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the valley.

The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather from December 9th to December 11th. There are chances of snow from 12th December to 13th December. The weather will again be dry from December 13 to December 18th, which means a further dip in the temperature.&nbsp;

The higher reaches and tourist spots of Kashmir Valley received a fresh spell of snowfall, spreading a lot of cheer among the visiting tourists. The plains continued to reel under severe cold wave conditions.

The higher reaches and tourist spots of Kashmir Valley received a fresh spell of snowfall, spreading a lot of cheer among the visiting tourists. The plains continued to reel under severe cold wave conditions. Tourist places like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Doodhpathri, and the higher reaches of North Kashmir received fresh spells of snowfall. Due to the fresh snowfall in the region, the road that connects Ladakh to Jammu and Kashmir has been closed to traffic due to the accumulation of snow. The Mughal Road and Sinthan Road have also been closed for vehicular movement by the traffic department of Jammu and Kashmir Police due to the fresh spell of snowfall. Men and machinery have been deployed to clear the roads for traffic at all the places. But the tourists visiting the valley are enjoying the fresh snowfall. ''I had come to Kashmir Valley only to witness snow, and I feel lucky that I got to see the snowfall in Gulmarg. It's nothing less than a winter wonderland. I am waiting for more snow as I am staying for a few more days, '' said Aakash Arora, a tourist. Also read: Sri Lankan Navy apprehends eight Indian fishermen, captures two boats The whole of Kashmir and the Ladakh region have been continuously reeling under extreme cold waves, and the temperatures across the division are below freezing point. Srinagar City recorded the temperatures at minus 3.3 degrees. South Kashmir remains one of the coldest areas in the Kashmir division. The Larnoo area in South Kashmir recorded the second lowest temperature in Kashmir Valley at minus 7.9 degrees. The tourist resort Pahalgam recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6.8 degrees while the Shopian district was at minus 7.5 degrees Celsius. The World-Famous Ski resort in North Kashmir's Baramulla district recorded the minimum temperature at minus 9 degrees, becoming the coldest in the Kashmir Division. The tourist resort Sonamarg also recorded the season's minimum at minus 7 degrees. Pulwama recorded the minimum temperature at minus 6.7 degrees. Bandipora was at minus 4.1, and Baramulla was at minus 4.2 degrees. The temperature recorded at Nyoma Village in Ladakh dropped to below minus 12.7 degrees. While Leh town recorded the season's lowest at minus 12.8 degrees. The Zojila, which connects the Ladakh region to Jammu and Kashmir, recorded the minimum temperature at minus 20 degrees. The MeT Department of Kashmir Valley has predicted that the La Nina effect will have an impact with the wind circulation patterns leading to more rain and snow. The MeT department has predicted that the winter period will prolong and will be very harsh in terms of temperature as well as rains and snow. As we head towards the 'Chillai Kalan', which is the coldest period of 40 days starting December 21, the La Nina effect will multiply the impact of cold and precipitation in the valley. The Met Department has predicted generally dry weather from December 9th to December 11th. There are chances of snow from 12th December to 13th December. The weather will again be dry from December 13 to December 18th, which means a further dip in the temperature.

India: Heavy snowfall in Kashmir cheers tourists, turns valley into winter wonderland

At least five people were killed and one person was injured after a car plunged into a lake in the Indian state of Telangana on Saturday (Dec 7). They were travelling near Jalalpur village of Yadadri Bhongir district when the car went out of control and landed in the lake.

The victims were residents of the LC Nagar area in Hyderabad and were intoxicated during the accident. They reportedly left their homes at night and reached the village early morning to consume fresh toddy.

The victims have been identified as Vamsi (23), Dignesh (21), Harsha, Vinay, Manikanth, and Balu (19). All of them were residents of Hyderabad, police told India Today.&nbsp;

“The bodies of the deceased will be handed over to their families following legal formalities. Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing," the police said.

Watch |&nbsp;1.6 Crore Customers' Data Leaked On Dark Web

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According to the police, they rushed to the site of the accident after receiving the information and took the injured person to the nearest hospital while dead bodies were taken out from the lake. The bodies have been sent for postmortem. A video also emerged showing locals and police working together to get the car out of the lake.&nbsp;

Police said a case has been registered and the bodies will be handed out to families after legal formalities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least five people were killed and one person was injured after a car plunged into a lake in the Indian state of Telangana on Saturday (Dec 7). They were travelling near Jalalpur village of Yadadri Bhongir district when the car went out of control and landed in the lake.

At least five people were killed and one person was injured after a car plunged into a lake in the Indian state of Telangana on Saturday (Dec 7). They were travelling near Jalalpur village of Yadadri Bhongir district when the car went out of control and landed in the lake. The victims were residents of the LC Nagar area in Hyderabad and were intoxicated during the accident. They reportedly left their homes at night and reached the village early morning to consume fresh toddy. The victims have been identified as Vamsi (23), Dignesh (21), Harsha, Vinay, Manikanth, and Balu (19). All of them were residents of Hyderabad, police told India Today. “The bodies of the deceased will be handed over to their families following legal formalities. Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing," the police said. Watch | 1.6 Crore Customers' Data Leaked On Dark Web × According to the police, they rushed to the site of the accident after receiving the information and took the injured person to the nearest hospital while dead bodies were taken out from the lake. The bodies have been sent for postmortem. A video also emerged showing locals and police working together to get the car out of the lake. Police said a case has been registered and the bodies will be handed out to families after legal formalities. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 5 killed, 1 injured after car plunges into lake in Telangana

Bangladesh recalled its two senior diplomats from&nbsp;India on Thursday (Dec&nbsp;5) amid&nbsp; increasing tensions since the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina regime in a popular uprising. The interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus recalled Shikdar Mohammad Ashraful Rahman, working as the acting Deputy High Commissioner in Kolkata, along with the Assistant High Commissioner in Agartala, Arif Mohammad.

The decision came after protests in West Bengal and Tripura, the east Indian states sharing borders with Bangladesh.

The reported protests were against the arrest of religious leader and Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu. He was arrested on the charges of sedition.

Both recalled diplomats have been instructed to work from Dhaka till further developments.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh Plans to Remove Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Image from Currency Notes

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Sikder Mohammad returned to Bangladesh on Thursday (Dec 5) while Arif Mohammad is scheduled to reach on Saturday (Dec 7). The order to leave India was given&nbsp;to them on Tuesday (Dec 3).&nbsp;

<h2>Monk's lawyer 'attacked'</h2>

A lawyer of Krishna Das Prabhu was brutally attacked in Bangladesh, a spokesperson for the Hindu spiritual organisation International Society for Krishna Consciousness, known as ISKCON, said on December 2.&nbsp;

Chinmoy was&nbsp;accused of disrespecting the Bangladeshi flag while demanding safety for Hindus. An FIR was also filed against him and 18 others. He was denied bail on November 26 and sent to prison. The court will hear the case on January 2 next year.&nbsp;

Indian political leaders have been raising concerns over the arrest of the Hindu monk and rising attacks on the Hindu community in the country.

Over the weekend, ISKCON claimed Bangladesh detained two more Hindu monks who had gone to meet Chinmoy in jail.

While ISKCON earlier said Chinmoy was not its representative in Bangladesh, the group later said in a statement it “supports his rights and freedom for peacefully calling for protecting Hindus and their places of worship."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Bangladesh recalled its two senior diplomats from India on Thursday (Dec 5) amid increasing tensions since the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina regime in a popular uprising.

Bangladesh recalled its two senior diplomats from India on Thursday (Dec 5) amid increasing tensions since the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina regime in a popular uprising. The interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus recalled Shikdar Mohammad Ashraful Rahman, working as the acting Deputy High Commissioner in Kolkata, along with the Assistant High Commissioner in Agartala, Arif Mohammad. The decision came after protests in West Bengal and Tripura, the east Indian states sharing borders with Bangladesh. The reported protests were against the arrest of religious leader and Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das Prabhu. He was arrested on the charges of sedition. Both recalled diplomats have been instructed to work from Dhaka till further developments. Watch | Bangladesh Plans to Remove Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Image from Currency Notes × Sikder Mohammad returned to Bangladesh on Thursday (Dec 5) while Arif Mohammad is scheduled to reach on Saturday (Dec 7). The order to leave India was given to them on Tuesday (Dec 3). Monk's lawyer 'attacked' A lawyer of Krishna Das Prabhu was brutally attacked in Bangladesh, a spokesperson for the Hindu spiritual organisation International Society for Krishna Consciousness, known as ISKCON, said on December 2. Chinmoy was accused of disrespecting the Bangladeshi flag while demanding safety for Hindus. An FIR was also filed against him and 18 others. He was denied bail on November 26 and sent to prison. The court will hear the case on January 2 next year. Indian political leaders have been raising concerns over the arrest of the Hindu monk and rising attacks on the Hindu community in the country. Over the weekend, ISKCON claimed Bangladesh detained two more Hindu monks who had gone to meet Chinmoy in jail. While ISKCON earlier said Chinmoy was not its representative in Bangladesh, the group later said in a statement it “supports his rights and freedom for peacefully calling for protecting Hindus and their places of worship." (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh recalls 2 senior diplomats from India amid rising tensions between the nations

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the US State Department is trying to "destabilise India", adding that the US&nbsp;"deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi".&nbsp;

Sambit Patra, the spokesperson of the ruling BJP, said that the US deep state has been involved with a group of journalists and with the opposition leader Rahul Gandhi to pull down India's growth story with unsubstantiated allegations and malicious reports without a "shred of evidence".&nbsp;

He further stressed that all of this is in conjunction with the US State Department.&nbsp;

During a press conference, he said, "It has always been the US State Department behind this agenda."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/adani-bribery-case-he-should-be-arrested-rahul-gandhi-other-indian-leaders-react-777940">Also read:&nbsp;Adani bribery case | He should be arrested: Rahul Gandhi, other Indian leaders react</a>

This comes as a surprise as India and the US have been sharing a strong relationship in the last two decades.&nbsp;

Patra also said that the opposition Congress has used the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)'s articles that "singularly focused" on the Adani group and its alleged proximity with the Indian government to undermine PM Modi.&nbsp;

Last month, Gautam Adani, the group's chairman, and seven others were indicted in the United States for being part of a $265 billion scheme to bribe Indian officials.&nbsp;

The OCCRP's articles have further accused state-sponsored hackers in India of using Israeli-made Pegasus spyware to target government critics.

Watch |&nbsp;India On Adani Probe In US: 'No Prior Info On Adani US Charges'

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The OCCRP was funded by the US Agency for International Department and "other deep state figures" like George Soros, the BJP spokesperson said citing a French media report.&nbsp;

"The Deep State had a clear objective to destabilise India by targeting Prime Minister Modi," he said, adding, "It has always been the US State Department behind this agenda...OCCRP has served as a media tool for carrying out a deep state agenda."

"A French investigative media group has revealed that 50 per cent of OCCRP's funding comes directly from the US State Department," Patra said.

The BJP spokesperson also accused Rahul Gandhi of being a "traitor of the highest order", saying that "some agencies of America" and billionaire George Soros make a "dangerous triangle trying to destabilise India".

The US State Department, US AID, billionaire financier-philanthropist George Soros, and the Congress party are yet to respond to these allegations.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, OCCRP issued a statement, saying, "The US government, while providing some funding to OCCRP, has no say in our editorial processes and no control over our reporting."

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the US State Department is trying to "destabilise India", adding that the US "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the US State Department is trying to "destabilise India", adding that the US "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi". Sambit Patra, the spokesperson of the ruling BJP, said that the US deep state has been involved with a group of journalists and with the opposition leader Rahul Gandhi to pull down India's growth story with unsubstantiated allegations and malicious reports without a "shred of evidence". He further stressed that all of this is in conjunction with the US State Department. During a press conference, he said, "It has always been the US State Department behind this agenda." Also read: Adani bribery case | He should be arrested: Rahul Gandhi, other Indian leaders react This comes as a surprise as India and the US have been sharing a strong relationship in the last two decades. Patra also said that the opposition Congress has used the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)'s articles that "singularly focused" on the Adani group and its alleged proximity with the Indian government to undermine PM Modi. Last month, Gautam Adani, the group's chairman, and seven others were indicted in the United States for being part of a $265 billion scheme to bribe Indian officials. The OCCRP's articles have further accused state-sponsored hackers in India of using Israeli-made Pegasus spyware to target government critics. Watch | India On Adani Probe In US: 'No Prior Info On Adani US Charges' × The OCCRP was funded by the US Agency for International Department and "other deep state figures" like George Soros, the BJP spokesperson said citing a French media report. "The Deep State had a clear objective to destabilise India by targeting Prime Minister Modi," he said, adding, "It has always been the US State Department behind this agenda...OCCRP has served as a media tool for carrying out a deep state agenda." "A French investigative media group has revealed that 50 per cent of OCCRP's funding comes directly from the US State Department," Patra said. The BJP spokesperson also accused Rahul Gandhi of being a "traitor of the highest order", saying that "some agencies of America" and billionaire George Soros make a "dangerous triangle trying to destabilise India". The US State Department, US AID, billionaire financier-philanthropist George Soros, and the Congress party are yet to respond to these allegations. Meanwhile, OCCRP issued a statement, saying, "The US government, while providing some funding to OCCRP, has no say in our editorial processes and no control over our reporting." (With inputs from agencies)

BJP accuses US 'deep state' elements for targeting PM Modi, says Washington trying to 'destabilise India'

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent&nbsp;them from crossing the border.&nbsp;

Farmers in the day, vowed to march from the Shambhu border to the Parliament in Delhi on Friday (Dec 6).&nbsp;

As police fired tear gas shells, at least six farmers got injured, including BKU Krantikari chairman Surjit Singh Phool. Following this, farmer leader Sarwan Pandher has called for talks with Haryana police at the Shambhu border.&nbsp;

The farmers are pressing the Indian government to address their demands, including higher compensation and residential plots for their acquired land.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-bracing-for-traffic-chaos-as-punjab-farmers-vow-to-continue-march-781879">Also read:&nbsp;Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today</a>

The group of farmers are from Punjab under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.&nbsp;

As they continue to demonstrate at the Shambhu border, security has beefed up and Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in Haryana's Ambala district, which prohibits the unlawful assembly of groups of four or more people.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border. 
 
The farmers have announced to march towards the National Capital-Delhi over their various demands. <a href="https://t.co/TQyigtUF6K">pic.twitter.com/TQyigtUF6K</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864967534296076387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The group managed to cross the initial barricades easily but was unable to move further.&nbsp;

Further, farmers were also seen removing barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at the border, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?

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Meanwhile, some of the farmers said that the police used pepper spray on them to stop them from heading towards Delhi.

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VIDEO | Farmers remove barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shambhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shambhu</a> border. 
 
The protesting farmers are marching to force the Centre for a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FarmersProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FarmersProtest</a> 
 
(Full video available on PTI Videos -… <a href="https://t.co/Vi8h2rK94U">pic.twitter.com/Vi8h2rK94U</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1864954577810022488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>'Farmers' demand is justified'</h2>

Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad reacted to the current situation in the country, stressing, "Farmers' demand is justified because farmers are the soul of the country."

"Our country is farmers' country and till they become prosperous, our country won't become prosperous," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>'Govt turned back on its word'</h2>

Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said the government had promised a legal guarantee of MSP to the farmers but in Punjab, the situation like paddy procurement is not even being done.&nbsp;

"The government has turned back on its word. Even the vice president has expressed his concern about this issue. This government doesn't do what it says, so the farmers are agitated," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent them from crossing the border.

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent them from crossing the border. Farmers in the day, vowed to march from the Shambhu border to the Parliament in Delhi on Friday (Dec 6). As police fired tear gas shells, at least six farmers got injured, including BKU Krantikari chairman Surjit Singh Phool. Following this, farmer leader Sarwan Pandher has called for talks with Haryana police at the Shambhu border. The farmers are pressing the Indian government to address their demands, including higher compensation and residential plots for their acquired land. Also read: Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today The group of farmers are from Punjab under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. As they continue to demonstrate at the Shambhu border, security has beefed up and Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in Haryana's Ambala district, which prohibits the unlawful assembly of groups of four or more people. #WATCH | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border. The farmers have announced to march towards the National Capital-Delhi over their various demands. pic.twitter.com/TQyigtUF6K — ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2024 × The group managed to cross the initial barricades easily but was unable to move further. Further, farmers were also seen removing barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at the border, news agency PTI reported. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × Meanwhile, some of the farmers said that the police used pepper spray on them to stop them from heading towards Delhi. VIDEO | Farmers remove barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at #Shambhu border. The protesting farmers are marching to force the Centre for a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops.#FarmersProtest (Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/Vi8h2rK94U — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 6, 2024 × 'Farmers' demand is justified' Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad reacted to the current situation in the country, stressing, "Farmers' demand is justified because farmers are the soul of the country." "Our country is farmers' country and till they become prosperous, our country won't become prosperous," he added. 'Govt turned back on its word' Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said the government had promised a legal guarantee of MSP to the farmers but in Punjab, the situation like paddy procurement is not even being done. "The government has turned back on its word. Even the vice president has expressed his concern about this issue. This government doesn't do what it says, so the farmers are agitated," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Delhi Chalo' protest: Farmers halt march after police use tear gas shells, injuring many protesters

India's&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's&nbsp;support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats.&nbsp;

During the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian Parliament), EAM Jaishankar addressed the Israel-Hamas war and said that India and Israel have a strong record of cooperation in the area of national security.&nbsp;

Jaishankar said that India's decision to continue defence cooperation with Israel relies on national security interests.

"As far as Israel is concerned, it is a country with which we have a strong record of cooperation in national security. It is also a country that has stood by us at different moments when our national security was under threat. When we take any decision, we will bear in mind the larger circumstances but we will be guided by our national security interests," he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-unequivocally-condemns-terrorism-in-regular-touch-with-israel-says-jaishankar-at-rome-conference-779133">Also read:&nbsp;'India unequivocally condemns terrorism, in regular touch with Israel, Iran': Jaishankar at Rome conference</a>

"We condemn terrorism, we condemn hostage-taking. We do believe countries have the right to respond to the situation but countries should be mindful of civilian casualties. They must observe humanitarian law and we would like a ceasefire and an early end of violence," Jaishankar said while responding to a supplementary regarding India's position on the ongoing Israel-Hamas&nbsp;war.&nbsp;

Further while reiterating India's support for a two-state solution, he said that issues of terrorism and hostage-taking cannot be underplayed or ignored.&nbsp;

“India’s policy towards Palestine has been long-standing and we have always supported a negotiated two-State solution, towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel," the Indian foreign minister&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;West Asia crisis: EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Iran &amp; Israel

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Responding to a question about India's abstention from some resolutions in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)&nbsp;in October last year, Jaishankar said there were many resolutions in the assembly, adding that in some, India abstained and in some, it voted in favour.&nbsp;

"Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict, 13 resolutions concerning Palestine were brought in UNGA out of which India voted in favour of 10 resolutions and abstained from three resolutions," Jaishankar said.

"In this particular case, we felt that the resolution was not well-drafted and not well-considered. We had reservations about the language. Our concern was not accommodated. That is why we abstained," he said.

“A country like India, which is itself a victim of terrorism, if we countenance the fact that terrorism is underplayed and ignored, it is not in our interests that we do so. We look at any resolution, we look at the wording and take a mature view," the EAM&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats. During the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian Parliament), EAM Jaishankar addressed the Israel-Hamas war and said that India and Israel have a strong record of cooperation in the area of national security. Jaishankar said that India's decision to continue defence cooperation with Israel relies on national security interests. "As far as Israel is concerned, it is a country with which we have a strong record of cooperation in national security. It is also a country that has stood by us at different moments when our national security was under threat. When we take any decision, we will bear in mind the larger circumstances but we will be guided by our national security interests," he said. Also read: 'India unequivocally condemns terrorism, in regular touch with Israel, Iran': Jaishankar at Rome conference "We condemn terrorism, we condemn hostage-taking. We do believe countries have the right to respond to the situation but countries should be mindful of civilian casualties. They must observe humanitarian law and we would like a ceasefire and an early end of violence," Jaishankar said while responding to a supplementary regarding India's position on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Further while reiterating India's support for a two-state solution, he said that issues of terrorism and hostage-taking cannot be underplayed or ignored. “India’s policy towards Palestine has been long-standing and we have always supported a negotiated two-State solution, towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel," the Indian foreign minister said. Watch | West Asia crisis: EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Iran & Israel × Responding to a question about India's abstention from some resolutions in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in October last year, Jaishankar said there were many resolutions in the assembly, adding that in some, India abstained and in some, it voted in favour. "Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict, 13 resolutions concerning Palestine were brought in UNGA out of which India voted in favour of 10 resolutions and abstained from three resolutions," Jaishankar said. "In this particular case, we felt that the resolution was not well-drafted and not well-considered. We had reservations about the language. Our concern was not accommodated. That is why we abstained," he said. “A country like India, which is itself a victim of terrorism, if we countenance the fact that terrorism is underplayed and ignored, it is not in our interests that we do so. We look at any resolution, we look at the wording and take a mature view," the EAM added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Israel stood by India during national security threats,' Jaishankar briefs parliament on Israel-Hamas war

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower House of the Indian parliament), Rahul Gandhi said on Wednesday (Dec 4) that he was willing to visit the violence-hit Sambhal without his convoy, accompanied only by the police.&nbsp;

However, he said that the authorities had requested him to postpone his visit and asked him to return after a few days. Rahul stated that this was against the rights of the LoP and the Constitution.

Gandhi's statement comes as he and his sister, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, were stopped at the Ghazipur border and barred from proceeding towards Sambhal. Subsequently, the Congress leaders returned to Delhi.

"We are trying to go to Sambhal, the police is refusing, they are not allowing us. As LoP, it is my right to go, but they are stopping me. I am ready to go alone, I am ready to go with the police, but they did not accept that too. They are saying that if we come back in a few days then they will let us go. This is against the rights of the LoP and against the Constitution. We just want to go to Sambhal and see what happened there, we want to meet the people. My constitutional right is not being given to me. This is the new India, this is the India to end the Constitution. This is the India to end Ambedkar's Constitution. We will keep fighting," Rahul said.

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पुलिस ने हमें संभल जाने से रोक दिया। विपक्ष के नेता होने के नाते यह मेरा अधिकार और कर्तव्य है कि मैं वहां जाऊं। फिर भी मुझे रोका गया। 
 
मैं अकेला जाने को भी तैयार हूं, लेकिन वे इसके लिए भी नहीं माने। यह संविधान के ख़िलाफ़ है। 
 
भाजपा क्यों डरी हुई है - अपनी नाकामियों को छुपाने के… <a href="https://t.co/aZ5pDjXtZA">pic.twitter.com/aZ5pDjXtZA</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1864229268210815066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Congress MP KC Venugopal said that they were informed that the party could again visit the violence-hit region after four to five days.

"Police informed us that they will allow us after four to five days. They have purposefully blocked the traffic. We do not want to create problems for the common people," Venugopal said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-cites-popular-bollywood-movie-dialogue-as-he-hails-3-new-criminal-laws-781374">PM Modi cites popular Bollywood movie dialogue as he hails adoption of 3 new criminal laws</a>

"Our delegation headed to Sambhal led by LOP Rahul Gandhi ji and Priyanka Gandhi ji has been stopped at the UP border in Ghaziabad. What is the reason behind the UP Government stopping the Lok Sabha LOP from visiting the families of those who lost their lives in the violence? It is basic humanity to stand by someone who has suffered such grief and loss. Rahul ji's motto has been 'Nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukaan'. And when the ruling regime has created an atmosphere of hatred, it is our duty as the opposition to bring compassion, empathy and love," he wrote in a post on X.

"We are determined to meet the victims' families in the interest of peace and communal harmony in our country, the UP government must allow the delegation to visit Sambhal," he added.

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Our delegation headed to Sambhal led by LOP Sh. <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> ji and Smt. <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@priyankagandhi</a> ji has been stopped at the UP border in Ghaziabad. 
 
What is the reason behind the UP Government stopping the Lok Sabha LOP from visiting the families of those who lost their lives in the… <a href="https://t.co/G3phBGdzEA">pic.twitter.com/G3phBGdzEA</a>
— K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/kcvenugopalmp/status/1864183940321259660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>'Cannot be stopped like this,' says Priyanka</h2>

The Wayanad MP said that Rahul Gandhi being the Leader of the Opposition has full right to meet the victims of violence-hit Sambhal and cannot be stopped by the police.

"Whatever happened in Sambhal is wrong. Rahul Gandhi is the leader of the opposition, he has constitutional rights and he cannot be stopped like this. He has the constitutional right to be allowed to go and meet the victims. He also said that he would go alone with the UP police but they are not ready to do that either. The police have no answer. Maybe the situation in Uttar Pradesh is such that they cannot handle even this much. Why do they say so arrogantly that they have taken care of the law and order?" Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower House of the Indian parliament), Rahul Gandhi said on Wednesday (Dec 4) that he was willing to visit the violence-hit Sambhal without his convoy, accompanied only by the police.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (lower House of the Indian parliament), Rahul Gandhi said on Wednesday (Dec 4) that he was willing to visit the violence-hit Sambhal without his convoy, accompanied only by the police. However, he said that the authorities had requested him to postpone his visit and asked him to return after a few days. Rahul stated that this was against the rights of the LoP and the Constitution. Gandhi's statement comes as he and his sister, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, were stopped at the Ghazipur border and barred from proceeding towards Sambhal. Subsequently, the Congress leaders returned to Delhi. "We are trying to go to Sambhal, the police is refusing, they are not allowing us. As LoP, it is my right to go, but they are stopping me. I am ready to go alone, I am ready to go with the police, but they did not accept that too. They are saying that if we come back in a few days then they will let us go. This is against the rights of the LoP and against the Constitution. We just want to go to Sambhal and see what happened there, we want to meet the people. My constitutional right is not being given to me. This is the new India, this is the India to end the Constitution. This is the India to end Ambedkar's Constitution. We will keep fighting," Rahul said. पुलिस ने हमें संभल जाने से रोक दिया। विपक्ष के नेता होने के नाते यह मेरा अधिकार और कर्तव्य है कि मैं वहां जाऊं। फिर भी मुझे रोका गया। मैं अकेला जाने को भी तैयार हूं, लेकिन वे इसके लिए भी नहीं माने। यह संविधान के ख़िलाफ़ है। भाजपा क्यों डरी हुई है - अपनी नाकामियों को छुपाने के… pic.twitter.com/aZ5pDjXtZA — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 4, 2024 × Congress MP KC Venugopal said that they were informed that the party could again visit the violence-hit region after four to five days. "Police informed us that they will allow us after four to five days. They have purposefully blocked the traffic. We do not want to create problems for the common people," Venugopal said. Also read: PM Modi cites popular Bollywood movie dialogue as he hails adoption of 3 new criminal laws "Our delegation headed to Sambhal led by LOP Rahul Gandhi ji and Priyanka Gandhi ji has been stopped at the UP border in Ghaziabad. What is the reason behind the UP Government stopping the Lok Sabha LOP from visiting the families of those who lost their lives in the violence? It is basic humanity to stand by someone who has suffered such grief and loss. Rahul ji's motto has been 'Nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukaan'. And when the ruling regime has created an atmosphere of hatred, it is our duty as the opposition to bring compassion, empathy and love," he wrote in a post on X. "We are determined to meet the victims' families in the interest of peace and communal harmony in our country, the UP government must allow the delegation to visit Sambhal," he added. Our delegation headed to Sambhal led by LOP Sh. @RahulGandhi ji and Smt. @priyankagandhi ji has been stopped at the UP border in Ghaziabad. What is the reason behind the UP Government stopping the Lok Sabha LOP from visiting the families of those who lost their lives in the… pic.twitter.com/G3phBGdzEA — K C Venugopal (@kcvenugopalmp) December 4, 2024 × 'Cannot be stopped like this,' says Priyanka The Wayanad MP said that Rahul Gandhi being the Leader of the Opposition has full right to meet the victims of violence-hit Sambhal and cannot be stopped by the police. "Whatever happened in Sambhal is wrong. Rahul Gandhi is the leader of the opposition, he has constitutional rights and he cannot be stopped like this. He has the constitutional right to be allowed to go and meet the victims. He also said that he would go alone with the UP police but they are not ready to do that either. The police have no answer. Maybe the situation in Uttar Pradesh is such that they cannot handle even this much. Why do they say so arrogantly that they have taken care of the law and order?" Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi stopped at Ghazipur border on way to Sambhal, says 'against rights'

An Indian student lost his life in Canada in a stabbing that took place in the early hours of Sunday (Dec. 1).

Police received a call regarding a stabbing incident, after which they reached a residence located in Ontario province and found “a deceased adult male and took a second individual into custody”, said local law enforcement.

After the post-mortem and police investigation, the victim was identified as 22-year-old Gurasis Singh, who was studying business at Lambton College.

“Students are at the heart of Lambton College, and the loss of a student is a tragedy of the highest magnitude. We extend our deepest condolences to Gurasis’s family, loved ones, and friends,” the Sarnia-based college said in a statement released on Tuesday confirming the death of Singh.

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The college said that the authorities were providing all the help and assistance to the students and staff.

“We thank our Sarnia-Lambton community for its support at this difficult time, and we ask for the privacy of the student’s family, loved ones, and friends to be respected,” they said.

Sarnia-based man, 36-year-old Crossley Hunter, is charged with second-degree murder, said the police.

According to a press release from Sarnia Police, the victim stayed with the alleged assailant in the same room, and the two “were involved in a physical altercation while in the kitchen”.

Sarnia Police Chief Derek Davis released a statement saying, “Despite an arrest having been made, this complex investigation is ongoing. The Sarnia Police Criminal Investigations Division continues to gather all available evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding this criminal act and what, if any, motive may have existed that led to the murder of this young man. At this time, we do not believe this crime to be racially motivated. The SPS, in partnership and coordination with Lambton College, will continue our efforts to support Gurasis’ family and friends as they seek to navigate these tragic circumstances.”

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian student lost his life in Canada in a stabbing that took place in the early hours of Sunday (Dec. 1). Police received a call regarding a stabbing incident, after which they reached a residence located in Ontario province and found “a deceased adult male and took a second individual into custody”, said local law enforcement.

An Indian student lost his life in Canada in a stabbing that took place in the early hours of Sunday (Dec. 1). Police received a call regarding a stabbing incident, after which they reached a residence located in Ontario province and found “a deceased adult male and took a second individual into custody”, said local law enforcement. After the post-mortem and police investigation, the victim was identified as 22-year-old Gurasis Singh, who was studying business at Lambton College. “Students are at the heart of Lambton College, and the loss of a student is a tragedy of the highest magnitude. We extend our deepest condolences to Gurasis’s family, loved ones, and friends,” the Sarnia-based college said in a statement released on Tuesday confirming the death of Singh. Also read: Sukhbir Badal's attacker Narain Singh Chaura linked to terror groups The college said that the authorities were providing all the help and assistance to the students and staff. “We thank our Sarnia-Lambton community for its support at this difficult time, and we ask for the privacy of the student’s family, loved ones, and friends to be respected,” they said. Sarnia-based man, 36-year-old Crossley Hunter, is charged with second-degree murder, said the police. According to a press release from Sarnia Police, the victim stayed with the alleged assailant in the same room, and the two “were involved in a physical altercation while in the kitchen”. Sarnia Police Chief Derek Davis released a statement saying, “Despite an arrest having been made, this complex investigation is ongoing. The Sarnia Police Criminal Investigations Division continues to gather all available evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding this criminal act and what, if any, motive may have existed that led to the murder of this young man. At this time, we do not believe this crime to be racially motivated. The SPS, in partnership and coordination with Lambton College, will continue our efforts to support Gurasis’ family and friends as they seek to navigate these tragic circumstances.” (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student fatally stabbed in Canada, suspect arrested

The name of Anmol Bishnoi, the younger brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has emerged as the main conspirator in the killing of NCP leader Baba Siddique, the Mumbai police told a special court here.

The police made the claim on Tuesday while seeking the remand of eight accused in the case, citing provisions of the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).

Special MCOCA court judge A M Patil remanded the eight accused, including the alleged main shooter Shivkumar Gautam, in police custody till December 7.

Former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique, 66, was shot dead on October 12 by three assailants outside his son Zeeshan Siddique's office building in Bandra East here. He suffered two bullet injuries on his chest and was rushed to the Lilavati hospital in Mumbai, where he passed away.

Anmol Bishnoi, who was recently detained in the US and lodged in a prison there, has been shown as a wanted accused in the case.

During the remand hearing, the Mumbai police told the court that Anmol Bishnoi's name has surfaced as the main conspirator in the case during their probe.

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He was providing financial support to other accused and a probe was required to ascertain the source and utilisation of funds, they said.

Anmol had contacted the co-accused via a communication app, the police said, adding they needed to gather information on this aspect and hence custody of the arrested accused was required.

The crime branch has so far arrested 26 persons, including alleged main shooter Shivkumar Gautam, in connection with the case.

All the accused had earlier been sent in judicial custody by a magistrate court.

On November 30, the police invoked provisions of the stringent MCOCA against all the 26 accused. Following this, all the accused were produced before the special court on Tuesday.

However, before the court proceedings began, the judge asked journalists present in the courtroom to leave after the prosecution raised an objection, saying the remand application has sensitive information.

The police sought remand of the eight accused, including Gautam, for further in-depth investigation into the matter.

Defence lawyers Roopesh Jaiswal, Ajinkya Mirgal and Dilip Shukla opposed the remand, saying the accused have already been in custody for over 40 days.

The lawyers contended the MCOCA provisions are not made out against the accused as they have no previous cases against them.

Moreover, there is nothing on record to show these accused were part of the gang, which had two charge-sheets (an essential requirement to invoke MCOCA) against them, they said.

After hearing both the sides, the court sent the eight accused in police custody till December 7. The other accused were sent in 14-day judicial custody.

Besides Anmol Bishnoi, Shubham Lonkar is also a wanted accused in the case.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The name of Anmol Bishnoi, the younger brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has emerged as the main conspirator in the killing of NCP leader Baba Siddique, the Mumbai police told a special court here.

The name of Anmol Bishnoi, the younger brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has emerged as the main conspirator in the killing of NCP leader Baba Siddique, the Mumbai police told a special court here. The police made the claim on Tuesday while seeking the remand of eight accused in the case, citing provisions of the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). Special MCOCA court judge A M Patil remanded the eight accused, including the alleged main shooter Shivkumar Gautam, in police custody till December 7. Former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique, 66, was shot dead on October 12 by three assailants outside his son Zeeshan Siddique's office building in Bandra East here. He suffered two bullet injuries on his chest and was rushed to the Lilavati hospital in Mumbai, where he passed away. Anmol Bishnoi, who was recently detained in the US and lodged in a prison there, has been shown as a wanted accused in the case. During the remand hearing, the Mumbai police told the court that Anmol Bishnoi's name has surfaced as the main conspirator in the case during their probe. Also Read | Devendra Fadnavis to be Maharashtra chief minister, will take oath on Dec 5 He was providing financial support to other accused and a probe was required to ascertain the source and utilisation of funds, they said. Anmol had contacted the co-accused via a communication app, the police said, adding they needed to gather information on this aspect and hence custody of the arrested accused was required. The crime branch has so far arrested 26 persons, including alleged main shooter Shivkumar Gautam, in connection with the case. All the accused had earlier been sent in judicial custody by a magistrate court. On November 30, the police invoked provisions of the stringent MCOCA against all the 26 accused. Following this, all the accused were produced before the special court on Tuesday. However, before the court proceedings began, the judge asked journalists present in the courtroom to leave after the prosecution raised an objection, saying the remand application has sensitive information. The police sought remand of the eight accused, including Gautam, for further in-depth investigation into the matter. Defence lawyers Roopesh Jaiswal, Ajinkya Mirgal and Dilip Shukla opposed the remand, saying the accused have already been in custody for over 40 days. The lawyers contended the MCOCA provisions are not made out against the accused as they have no previous cases against them. Moreover, there is nothing on record to show these accused were part of the gang, which had two charge-sheets (an essential requirement to invoke MCOCA) against them, they said. After hearing both the sides, the court sent the eight accused in police custody till December 7. The other accused were sent in 14-day judicial custody. Besides Anmol Bishnoi, Shubham Lonkar is also a wanted accused in the case. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Mumbai police name Anmol Bishnoi as main conspirator in Baba Siddique's murder

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said. The dates will be announced in early 2025, according to the Russian Embassy in India.&nbsp;

PM Modi and Russian President Putin have agreements to hold meetings once a year and it is Russia's turn this time, Ushakov said in a briefing.&nbsp;

"Our leaders have an agreement to hold meetings once a year. This time, it's our turn." He further said, "We received Mr. Modi's invitation and we will certainly consider it positively," the diplomat said.&nbsp;

He added, "We will figure out the tentative dates early next year."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-expected-to-visit-india-soon-says-kremlin-spokesperson-777357">Also read:&nbsp;Russian President Putin expected to visit India soon, says Kremlin spokesperson</a>

According to the Russian embassy, the two leaders remain in regular contact and have been holding talks over phone calls once every couple of months.&nbsp;

PM Modi, during the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, extended an invitation to Putin to visit India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit next year.&nbsp;

Later, the Prime Minister's office released a statement stating that both leaders conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation in several domains, including political, economic, defence, energy, and people-to-people connections.

Watch |&nbsp;BRICS Summit 2024: Indian PM Holds Bilateral Talk With Putin In Kazan

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PM Modi and Putin exchanged views on India-Russia engagement in multilateral forums, in particular in BRICS, according to the press release.&nbsp;

PM Modi also said that his two visits to Russia in the last three months reflect close coordination and deep friendship between the two countries.&nbsp;

The two leaders met twice this year. PM Modi paid an official visit to Russia in July, marking his first bilateral visit after resuming office for the third time.&nbsp;

He was also conferred with Russia's highest national award, "The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle," for his contribution to fostering India-Russia ties.

His second visit was for the 16th BRICS Summit in October. He thanked Putin for the invitation and the hospitality.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said. The dates will be announced in early 2025, according to the Russian Embassy in India.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said. The dates will be announced in early 2025, according to the Russian Embassy in India. PM Modi and Russian President Putin have agreements to hold meetings once a year and it is Russia's turn this time, Ushakov said in a briefing. "Our leaders have an agreement to hold meetings once a year. This time, it's our turn." He further said, "We received Mr. Modi's invitation and we will certainly consider it positively," the diplomat said. He added, "We will figure out the tentative dates early next year." Also read: Russian President Putin expected to visit India soon, says Kremlin spokesperson According to the Russian embassy, the two leaders remain in regular contact and have been holding talks over phone calls once every couple of months. PM Modi, during the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, extended an invitation to Putin to visit India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit next year. Later, the Prime Minister's office released a statement stating that both leaders conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation in several domains, including political, economic, defence, energy, and people-to-people connections. Watch | BRICS Summit 2024: Indian PM Holds Bilateral Talk With Putin In Kazan × PM Modi and Putin exchanged views on India-Russia engagement in multilateral forums, in particular in BRICS, according to the press release. PM Modi also said that his two visits to Russia in the last three months reflect close coordination and deep friendship between the two countries. The two leaders met twice this year. PM Modi paid an official visit to Russia in July, marking his first bilateral visit after resuming office for the third time. He was also conferred with Russia's highest national award, "The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle," for his contribution to fostering India-Russia ties. His second visit was for the 16th BRICS Summit in October. He thanked Putin for the invitation and the hospitality. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Putin to visit India on PM Modi's invitation, dates to be announced in early 2025: Kremlin

Uttarakhand Police is looking into the suspicious claims of a man who was "reunited" with two separate families -- one in Ghaziabad and another in Dehradun -- within a span of five months after he claimed that he was their long-lost son who had been a victim of trafficking.

The emotional story of Bhim Singh returning to his parents in Ghaziabad after 31 years, which was covered widely in the media recently, caught the attention of Dehradun Police. The man claimed that he was kidnapped as an eight-year-old and sought the help of UP Police which "reunited" him with the family.

Police sources here said the man had allegedly made a similar claim five months back in Dehradun, where he had identified another family as his own and had started living with them. However, recently he left for Delhi and did not return.

Calling himself Monu Sharma, he had approached a police station in Dehradun and requested them to help him find his parents.

Both times, he allegedly made the same claim -- that he was kidnapped in his childhood and was forced to live as a bonded labourer in Rajasthan.

His picture was circulated in newspapers and other media, after which a woman Asha Sharma identified him as her missing son and the man started living with her family.

A few days back, he allegedly left his Dehradun home for Delhi and has since then made no contact with his "parents".

Later, Asha came to know that the man claiming to be Monu has now been "reunited" with another family in Ghaziabad.

She said that Monu would often quarrel with her daughter's children, asking them to be thrown out of the house. Asha's husband Kapildev Sharma said that he always doubted the man's claims but allowed him to stay in the house because of his wife.

He said that before leaving for Delhi, he borrowed ₹ 8,000 from a person in Dehradun.

When the police came to their house and said that he was now living with another family in Ghaziabad, Kapildev said they told the police that they did not want to see the man's face again.

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Anti-Human Trafficking Unit Inspector Praveen Pant, who helped the man meet Asha and Kapildev in Dehradun, said that the investigation is still on and, if necessary, the team will also go to Ghaziabad.

Pant said that when the man came to them in Dehradun, he seemed a "little mentally unstable".

Dehradun Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh said that the police are keeping a close watch on the case. He said that at present no case has been registered against the man in Dehradun.

Ghaziabad Police have also contacted their counterparts in Dehradun and are investigating the case further.

"Discrepancies have emerged in Raju's (Bhim Singh) statements as he could not provide the name of the truck driver who dropped him off both in Dehradun and Ghaziabad, raising suspicion," said Ghaziabad Deputy Commissioner of Police Nimish Patil.

"Despite the inconsistencies in Raju's statements, we are investigating the case thoroughly to verify the authenticity of his claims," the DCP said. Ghaziabad Police has called the man for further questioning.

According to Ghaziabad Police, "Monu" met Asha and Kapildev Sharma on June 26, 2024. The Sharmas' son went missing around 16-17 years ago, it said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Uttarakhand Police is looking into the suspicious claims of a man who was "reunited" with two separate families -- one in Ghaziabad and another in Dehradun -- within a span of five months after he claimed that he was their long-lost son who had been a victim of trafficking.

Uttarakhand Police is looking into the suspicious claims of a man who was "reunited" with two separate families -- one in Ghaziabad and another in Dehradun -- within a span of five months after he claimed that he was their long-lost son who had been a victim of trafficking. The emotional story of Bhim Singh returning to his parents in Ghaziabad after 31 years, which was covered widely in the media recently, caught the attention of Dehradun Police. The man claimed that he was kidnapped as an eight-year-old and sought the help of UP Police which "reunited" him with the family. Police sources here said the man had allegedly made a similar claim five months back in Dehradun, where he had identified another family as his own and had started living with them. However, recently he left for Delhi and did not return. Calling himself Monu Sharma, he had approached a police station in Dehradun and requested them to help him find his parents. Both times, he allegedly made the same claim -- that he was kidnapped in his childhood and was forced to live as a bonded labourer in Rajasthan. His picture was circulated in newspapers and other media, after which a woman Asha Sharma identified him as her missing son and the man started living with her family. A few days back, he allegedly left his Dehradun home for Delhi and has since then made no contact with his "parents". Later, Asha came to know that the man claiming to be Monu has now been "reunited" with another family in Ghaziabad. She said that Monu would often quarrel with her daughter's children, asking them to be thrown out of the house. Asha's husband Kapildev Sharma said that he always doubted the man's claims but allowed him to stay in the house because of his wife. He said that before leaving for Delhi, he borrowed ₹ 8,000 from a person in Dehradun. When the police came to their house and said that he was now living with another family in Ghaziabad, Kapildev said they told the police that they did not want to see the man's face again. Also read: Trump taps daughter's father-in-law Massad Boulos as his Middle East advisor Anti-Human Trafficking Unit Inspector Praveen Pant, who helped the man meet Asha and Kapildev in Dehradun, said that the investigation is still on and, if necessary, the team will also go to Ghaziabad. Pant said that when the man came to them in Dehradun, he seemed a "little mentally unstable". Dehradun Senior Superintendent of Police Ajay Singh said that the police are keeping a close watch on the case. He said that at present no case has been registered against the man in Dehradun. Ghaziabad Police have also contacted their counterparts in Dehradun and are investigating the case further. "Discrepancies have emerged in Raju's (Bhim Singh) statements as he could not provide the name of the truck driver who dropped him off both in Dehradun and Ghaziabad, raising suspicion," said Ghaziabad Deputy Commissioner of Police Nimish Patil. "Despite the inconsistencies in Raju's statements, we are investigating the case thoroughly to verify the authenticity of his claims," the DCP said. Ghaziabad Police has called the man for further questioning. According to Ghaziabad Police, "Monu" met Asha and Kapildev Sharma on June 26, 2024. The Sharmas' son went missing around 16-17 years ago, it said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Days after 'reuniting' with family in Ghaziabad, missing son's claim under scanner

A groom has gone viral after a picture surfaced showing him playing Ludo on his phone with his friends during his wedding ceremony. The picture, captioned "Bro has his own priorities," quickly gained traction, racking up over 450,000 views and 10,000 likes. Viewers flooded the comments section with humorous takes and sarcastic remarks, highlighting the groom’s apparent lack of interest in the big day.

The amusing footage, shared on platform X, shows the groom deeply focused on the game with his two friends sitting behind him, while the wedding ceremony continues in the front. In the picture, a priest and a wedding photographer can also be seen busy in&nbsp;their work.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-man-wrongly-accused-of-theft-beaten-and-tied-to-a-pole-at-wedding-celebration-780482">India: UP man wrongly accused of theft, beaten and tied to a pole at wedding celebration</a>

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media.

&nbsp;

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Bro has his own priorities <a href="https://t.co/CEVJnfPpvb">pic.twitter.com/CEVJnfPpvb</a>
— Muskan (@Muskan_nnn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Muskan_nnn/status/1861657916694241484?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

<h2>Internet reactions</h2>

Social media users were quick to weigh in with their thoughts. One user joked, “Priority matters the most!” while another wrote, “Could be done for views but if the man marrying is having this demeanour on the marriage day and least interested, guess what happens 1 year after marriage? Haha.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-airport-resumes-operations-after-cyclone-fengal-crosses-tamil-nadu-and-puducherry-coasts-780543">Chennai Airport resumes operations after cyclone Fengal crosses Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts</a>

Other reactions included: “Is it that important?” and “Marriage is scary, what if he does this on our wedding?” Another user speculated, “Looks like there is a bet on playing Ludo.” One more commenter remarked, “This is why grooms shouldn’t have smartphones during the ceremony.”

“Imagine explaining this to your kids someday!,” read another comment.

“He’s clearly got his life priorities sorted,” summed up one user.

The photograph continues to spark laughter and conversation online, with users sharing their own takes on the groom’s unconventional wedding moment.

(With inputs from agencies)

A groom has gone viral after a picture surfaced showing him playing Ludo on his phone with his friends during his wedding ceremony. The picture, captioned "Bro has his own priorities," quickly gained traction, racking up over 450,000 views and 10,000 likes.

A groom has gone viral after a picture surfaced showing him playing Ludo on his phone with his friends during his wedding ceremony. The picture, captioned "Bro has his own priorities," quickly gained traction, racking up over 450,000 views and 10,000 likes. Viewers flooded the comments section with humorous takes and sarcastic remarks, highlighting the groom’s apparent lack of interest in the big day. The amusing footage, shared on platform X, shows the groom deeply focused on the game with his two friends sitting behind him, while the wedding ceremony continues in the front. In the picture, a priest and a wedding photographer can also be seen busy in their work. Also read | India: UP man wrongly accused of theft, beaten and tied to a pole at wedding celebration Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos, videos and information shared on social media. Bro has his own priorities pic.twitter.com/CEVJnfPpvb — Muskan (@Muskan_nnn) November 27, 2024 × Internet reactions Social media users were quick to weigh in with their thoughts. One user joked, “Priority matters the most!” while another wrote, “Could be done for views but if the man marrying is having this demeanour on the marriage day and least interested, guess what happens 1 year after marriage? Haha.” Also read | Chennai Airport resumes operations after cyclone Fengal crosses Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts Other reactions included: “Is it that important?” and “Marriage is scary, what if he does this on our wedding?” Another user speculated, “Looks like there is a bet on playing Ludo.” One more commenter remarked, “This is why grooms shouldn’t have smartphones during the ceremony.” “Imagine explaining this to your kids someday!,” read another comment. “He’s clearly got his life priorities sorted,” summed up one user. The photograph continues to spark laughter and conversation online, with users sharing their own takes on the groom’s unconventional wedding moment. (With inputs from agencies)

Groom goes viral for playing ludo on his phone during wedding ceremony

Cyclone Fengal made&nbsp;landfall in India's southernmost state of Tamil Nadu on Saturday&nbsp;(Nov 30) evening. The storm is likely to cross the Tamil Nadu coast in the next three&nbsp;hours, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD).&nbsp;

The cyclone was expected to bring strong winds of&nbsp;70-80 km/h, gusting to 90 km/h, during the afternoon of November 30 in&nbsp;parts of Tamil Nadu, South Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and interior Karnataka as well as&nbsp;Puducherry.

The IMD&nbsp;also issued&nbsp;a red alert&nbsp;for at least ten&nbsp;districts of the states in southern India&nbsp;given incessant rainfall.

News agency PTI reported that authorities had sent alerts and text messages to at least 1.2 million residents ahead of the landfall.&nbsp;

Cyclone Fengal: Tamil Nadu Battling Hight Tides, Gusty Winds

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Chennai IMD Head S Balachandran said, “It is lying at about 100kms south-east of Chennai and Northeast of Puducherry. It is moving at the rate of 10km/hour. It is likely to cross near Puducherry by today evening," reported news agency ANI.

He added, "There will be extremely heavy rainfall... The day after tomorrow, the system will move westward... The wind speed will be 70-80 kmph at the time of crossing, gusting to 90 kmph."

Operations at the Chennai airport have also been suspended till 4:00 am (local time)&nbsp;Sunday morning.&nbsp;Media reports citing official sources said the two runways and the taxiway at the Chennai airport were inundated,&nbsp;as a result,&nbsp;around&nbsp;55 flights were cancelled and 19 others were diverted. The services reportedly included both domestic and international operations.

Local trains across all suburban sections in the Chennai division were operating at reduced frequency intervals.

The Tamil Nadu government earlier ordered all schools and colleges in Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu districts to remain shut.&nbsp;The government also asked IT companies to allow their employees to work from home because of the heavy rains.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Fengal made landfall in India's southernmost state of Tamil Nadu on Saturday (Nov 30) evening. The storm is likely to cross the Tamil Nadu coast in the next three hours, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Cyclone Fengal made landfall in India's southernmost state of Tamil Nadu on Saturday (Nov 30) evening. The storm is likely to cross the Tamil Nadu coast in the next three hours, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The cyclone was expected to bring strong winds of 70-80 km/h, gusting to 90 km/h, during the afternoon of November 30 in parts of Tamil Nadu, South Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and interior Karnataka as well as Puducherry. The IMD also issued a red alert for at least ten districts of the states in southern India given incessant rainfall. News agency PTI reported that authorities had sent alerts and text messages to at least 1.2 million residents ahead of the landfall. Cyclone Fengal: Tamil Nadu Battling Hight Tides, Gusty Winds × Chennai IMD Head S Balachandran said, “It is lying at about 100kms south-east of Chennai and Northeast of Puducherry. It is moving at the rate of 10km/hour. It is likely to cross near Puducherry by today evening," reported news agency ANI. He added, "There will be extremely heavy rainfall... The day after tomorrow, the system will move westward... The wind speed will be 70-80 kmph at the time of crossing, gusting to 90 kmph." Operations at the Chennai airport have also been suspended till 4:00 am (local time) Sunday morning. Media reports citing official sources said the two runways and the taxiway at the Chennai airport were inundated, as a result, around 55 flights were cancelled and 19 others were diverted. The services reportedly included both domestic and international operations. Local trains across all suburban sections in the Chennai division were operating at reduced frequency intervals. The Tamil Nadu government earlier ordered all schools and colleges in Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu districts to remain shut. The government also asked IT companies to allow their employees to work from home because of the heavy rains. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Fengal makes landfall in India's Tamil Nadu, red alert issued in 10 districts

Delhi Police on Saturday detained a bus marshal for throwing a liquid, which the police said was water on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during his padyatra (walk on foot).

Kejriwal was conducting his padyatra in Delhi's Greater Kailash area when the incident happened.

As per the police, the AAP Chief was shaking hands with the public when a person namely Ashok Jha attempted to throw "water" on Arvind Kejriwal, but he was immediately caught as the police staff was nearby along with ropes.

"The said attempt was foiled and the person was detained. The alleged person is serving as a Bus Marshal at Khanpur Depot. Further examination of the person is in progress to find out the reasons behind this act," the police said.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi claimed that the accused was a BJP worker.

"Today in broad daylight, a BJP worker attacked Arvind Kejriwal ji. The BJP is feeling very nervous about losing the Delhi elections for the third time.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fengal-makes-landfall-in-indias-tamil-nadu-heavy-rains-batter-chennai-780505">Cyclone Fengal makes landfall in India's Tamil Nadu, red alert issued in 10 districts</a>

Delhi people will take revenge for such cheap acts. Last time they got eight seats, this time Delhi people will give zero seats to BJP," she said.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann termed the incident as "shameful".

"The attack on Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi's Greater Kailash is very shameful. Ever since Kejriwal ji has started asking BJP questions about Delhi's law and order and people's safety, BJP has been completely baffled. This attack is the result of that frenzy. This is the third attack on him in 35 days. Whenever&nbsp;the BJP fails in its responsible work, it starts to adopt ways of fighting and fighting," CM Mann said.

Reacting to it, Congress leader Udit Raj said, "Nothing can be said, whether it is organised or not. I believe the public is upset. Two people in this country lie a lot, one is PM Modi and the other is Arvind Kejriwal. He made false promises but did not work for the people."

Earlier today, Arvind Kejriwal, along with Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, visited the family of a man who was stabbed to death in their house in the Panchsheel Park area on Saturday.

Speaking to the media, Kejriwal stated that the victim's family is in deep shock as the motive behind the incident remains unclear.

"Senior citizens across Delhi are in distress, and businessmen are receiving extortion calls. Shootouts are happening in the city. Crime is rampant in Delhi. I want to ask Amit Shah--when will you take action against this? Since he became Home Minister, the situation in Delhi has gone from bad to worse," the AAP chief said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Delhi Police on Saturday detained a bus marshal for throwing a liquid, which the police said was water on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during his padyatra (walk on foot).

Delhi Police on Saturday detained a bus marshal for throwing a liquid, which the police said was water on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during his padyatra (walk on foot). Kejriwal was conducting his padyatra in Delhi's Greater Kailash area when the incident happened. As per the police, the AAP Chief was shaking hands with the public when a person namely Ashok Jha attempted to throw "water" on Arvind Kejriwal, but he was immediately caught as the police staff was nearby along with ropes. "The said attempt was foiled and the person was detained. The alleged person is serving as a Bus Marshal at Khanpur Depot. Further examination of the person is in progress to find out the reasons behind this act," the police said. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi claimed that the accused was a BJP worker. "Today in broad daylight, a BJP worker attacked Arvind Kejriwal ji. The BJP is feeling very nervous about losing the Delhi elections for the third time. Also Read | Cyclone Fengal makes landfall in India's Tamil Nadu, red alert issued in 10 districts Delhi people will take revenge for such cheap acts. Last time they got eight seats, this time Delhi people will give zero seats to BJP," she said. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann termed the incident as "shameful". "The attack on Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi's Greater Kailash is very shameful. Ever since Kejriwal ji has started asking BJP questions about Delhi's law and order and people's safety, BJP has been completely baffled. This attack is the result of that frenzy. This is the third attack on him in 35 days. Whenever the BJP fails in its responsible work, it starts to adopt ways of fighting and fighting," CM Mann said. Reacting to it, Congress leader Udit Raj said, "Nothing can be said, whether it is organised or not. I believe the public is upset. Two people in this country lie a lot, one is PM Modi and the other is Arvind Kejriwal. He made false promises but did not work for the people." Earlier today, Arvind Kejriwal, along with Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, visited the family of a man who was stabbed to death in their house in the Panchsheel Park area on Saturday. Speaking to the media, Kejriwal stated that the victim's family is in deep shock as the motive behind the incident remains unclear. "Senior citizens across Delhi are in distress, and businessmen are receiving extortion calls. Shootouts are happening in the city. Crime is rampant in Delhi. I want to ask Amit Shah--when will you take action against this? Since he became Home Minister, the situation in Delhi has gone from bad to worse," the AAP chief said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

AAP decries 'attack' on Arvind Kejriwal, police detain man for throwing 'water' at ex-CM

The Mahayuti alliance leaders met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah at his residence on Thursday (November 28) after days of discussions. The alliance meeting held to pick the new Maharashtra chief minister went on for over two hours, but no formal announcement on the next CM's name was made. Reports said the name will be announced after the legislators' meeting in Mumbai in the presence of BJP observers from Delhi.

Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief&nbsp;Eknath Shinde, former CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar were there to hold discussions with Amit Shah in the&nbsp;presence of JP Nadda. NCP leader Praful Patel was also present at the meeting.&nbsp;

Before the meeting, caretaker CM Eknath Shinde arrived in the national capital on Thursday and met Amit Shah at his residence, where BJP national president JP Nadda was already there. 
 
As per reports, discussions were also held&nbsp;on the allocation of ministries and portfolios among the alliance partners.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-maha-battle-shinde-says-told-pm-modi-to-take-decision-amid-suspense-over-cm-post-779637">Also read:&nbsp;The ‘Maha’ battle: Shinde says told PM Modi to take decision amid suspense over CM post</a>

Earlier on Wednesday, while addressing a presser over CM suspense, Shinde said, “The huge amount of votes we received was only because of the work we did. We are really the real brothers of our 'Laadli Behens', and they kept this in mind before voting.”

“I am not the kind who gets upset, we are the kind of people who fight, fight for the people,” Shinde added. “All the work I do, I will do for the people of Maharashtra. What is important is not what I get, but what the people of the state get,” Shinde said.

Watch |&nbsp;Maharashtra News: Who Will Be The Next Chief Minister Of Maharashtra?

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Results were announced for the assembly elections in Maharashtra on November 23, in which the Mahayuti alliance registered a landslide victory. The alliance won 235 of the total 288 seats, with BJP alone contributing 132 seats. Fadnavis is now being termed by BJP leaders as the architect of this massive victory, with party leaders recommending his name for the CM's post.

However, the leaders of Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) are rooting for Eknath Shinde. The Mahayuti alliance had Shinde as their chief minister in the previous term.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Mahayuti alliance leaders met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah at his residence on Thursday (November 28) after days of discussions. The alliance meeting held to pick the new Maharashtra chief minister went on for over two hours, but no formal announcement on the next CM's name was made.

The Mahayuti alliance leaders met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah at his residence on Thursday (November 28) after days of discussions. The alliance meeting held to pick the new Maharashtra chief minister went on for over two hours, but no formal announcement on the next CM's name was made. Reports said the name will be announced after the legislators' meeting in Mumbai in the presence of BJP observers from Delhi. Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde, former CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar were there to hold discussions with Amit Shah in the presence of JP Nadda. NCP leader Praful Patel was also present at the meeting. Before the meeting, caretaker CM Eknath Shinde arrived in the national capital on Thursday and met Amit Shah at his residence, where BJP national president JP Nadda was already there. As per reports, discussions were also held on the allocation of ministries and portfolios among the alliance partners. Also read: The ‘Maha’ battle: Shinde says told PM Modi to take decision amid suspense over CM post Earlier on Wednesday, while addressing a presser over CM suspense, Shinde said, “The huge amount of votes we received was only because of the work we did. We are really the real brothers of our 'Laadli Behens', and they kept this in mind before voting.” “I am not the kind who gets upset, we are the kind of people who fight, fight for the people,” Shinde added. “All the work I do, I will do for the people of Maharashtra. What is important is not what I get, but what the people of the state get,” Shinde said. Watch | Maharashtra News: Who Will Be The Next Chief Minister Of Maharashtra? × Results were announced for the assembly elections in Maharashtra on November 23, in which the Mahayuti alliance registered a landslide victory. The alliance won 235 of the total 288 seats, with BJP alone contributing 132 seats. Fadnavis is now being termed by BJP leaders as the architect of this massive victory, with party leaders recommending his name for the CM's post. However, the leaders of Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) are rooting for Eknath Shinde. The Mahayuti alliance had Shinde as their chief minister in the previous term. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahayuti alliance leaders meet at Amit Shah's residence to decide Maharashtra CM, suspense continues

India is on the cusp of a digital revolution, and data centres are at the heart of this transformation. By 2025, the country is poised to become a global hub for data storage and processing, driven by policy support, technological advancements, and the growing digital economy. Here’s a look at the trends shaping the future of data centres in India.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
1. India as a Data Center Hub&nbsp;

India's data centre market is experiencing exponential growth, with projections indicating it could reach a value of $10 billion by 2025. Factors such as increasing internet penetration, rapid adoption of 5G, and the growing need for cloud services are driving this boom. Metros like Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru are emerging as prime data centre locations due to their robust infrastructure, availability of skilled talent, and proximity to undersea cable landing stations.&nbsp;

2. Impact of data localisation laws&nbsp;

The Indian government’s push for data localization, under policies like the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, has accelerated the establishment of data centres. Global players such as AWS, Microsoft, and Google are investing heavily in complying with these regulations, while Indian companies like Jio and Yotta Infrastructure are scaling up their capacities. This trend ensures that sensitive user data stays within Indian borders, promoting both data security and economic growth.&nbsp;

3. Green Data Centres on the rise&nbsp;

Sustainability is a key focus for Indian data centres in 2025. Operators are investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind to power facilities, with states such as Rajasthan and Gujarat leading in renewable energy adoption. Innovative cooling technologies, including liquid cooling and the use of natural resources for temperature management, are becoming standard practices to enhance energy efficiency.&nbsp;

4. Edge computing and regional growth&nbsp;

India’s shift towards edge computing is transforming data centre architecture. With the rollout of 5G and the proliferation of IoT devices, smaller edge data centres are being established closer to users in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This decentralization reduces latency and enhances the user experience for applications like autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and real-time analytics. It also drives regional economic growth, spreading digital infrastructure beyond metropolitan areas.&nbsp;

5. Expansion of colocation and hyperscale facilities&nbsp;

By 2025, colocation and hyperscale data centres will dominate the Indian market. Colocation facilities, which allow multiple organizations to share infrastructure, are becoming the preferred choice for startups and small businesses due to cost efficiency. On the other hand, hyperscale data centres, built to support massive data volumes for global giants like Amazon and Google, are rapidly expanding to cater to India's growing digital needs.&nbsp;

6. Advances in security and automation&nbsp;

With increasing cyber threats, Indian data centres are integrating advanced security measures such as Zero Trust Architecture, AI-powered threat detection, and biometric access controls. Automation is playing a vital role in optimizing operations. AI systems are managing energy consumption, predicting maintenance needs, and ensuring seamless uptime, reducing operational costs while improving efficiency.&nbsp;

7. Government support and policy initiatives&nbsp;

The Indian government’s initiatives, such as the National Policy on Software Products and state-level incentives, are creating a favourable ecosystem for data centre growth. Many states are offering subsidies on land, power tariffs, and taxes to attract data centre investments. Additionally, the rollout of 5G and advancements in digital infrastructure are bolstering the demand for data centres.&nbsp;

8. Opportunities in tier 2 and tier 3 cities&nbsp;

As data consumption grows beyond urban centres, data centre operators are expanding into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. These locations offer lower operational costs, ample land availability, and growing demand for digital services, making them attractive for future investments.&nbsp;

Conclusion

By 2025, India is set to be one of the most dynamic data centre markets in the world. The combination of regulatory support, technological innovation, and the country’s vast digital ecosystem is propelling this growth. From edge computing to green energy solutions, the future of data centres in India is vibrant and poised to support the nation’s digital aspirations. As these trends unfold, India’s data centre ecosystem will not only cater to domestic demand but also play a crucial role in the global digital economy.&nbsp;

India is on the cusp of a digital revolution, and data centres are at the heart of this transformation. By 2025, the country is poised to become a global hub for data storage and processing, driven by policy support, technological advancements, and the growing digital economy.

India is on the cusp of a digital revolution, and data centres are at the heart of this transformation. By 2025, the country is poised to become a global hub for data storage and processing, driven by policy support, technological advancements, and the growing digital economy. Here’s a look at the trends shaping the future of data centres in India. 1. India as a Data Center Hub India's data centre market is experiencing exponential growth, with projections indicating it could reach a value of $10 billion by 2025. Factors such as increasing internet penetration, rapid adoption of 5G, and the growing need for cloud services are driving this boom. Metros like Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru are emerging as prime data centre locations due to their robust infrastructure, availability of skilled talent, and proximity to undersea cable landing stations. 2. Impact of data localisation laws The Indian government’s push for data localization, under policies like the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, has accelerated the establishment of data centres. Global players such as AWS, Microsoft, and Google are investing heavily in complying with these regulations, while Indian companies like Jio and Yotta Infrastructure are scaling up their capacities. This trend ensures that sensitive user data stays within Indian borders, promoting both data security and economic growth. 3. Green Data Centres on the rise Sustainability is a key focus for Indian data centres in 2025. Operators are investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind to power facilities, with states such as Rajasthan and Gujarat leading in renewable energy adoption. Innovative cooling technologies, including liquid cooling and the use of natural resources for temperature management, are becoming standard practices to enhance energy efficiency. 4. Edge computing and regional growth India’s shift towards edge computing is transforming data centre architecture. With the rollout of 5G and the proliferation of IoT devices, smaller edge data centres are being established closer to users in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This decentralization reduces latency and enhances the user experience for applications like autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and real-time analytics. It also drives regional economic growth, spreading digital infrastructure beyond metropolitan areas. 5. Expansion of colocation and hyperscale facilities By 2025, colocation and hyperscale data centres will dominate the Indian market. Colocation facilities, which allow multiple organizations to share infrastructure, are becoming the preferred choice for startups and small businesses due to cost efficiency. On the other hand, hyperscale data centres, built to support massive data volumes for global giants like Amazon and Google, are rapidly expanding to cater to India's growing digital needs. 6. Advances in security and automation With increasing cyber threats, Indian data centres are integrating advanced security measures such as Zero Trust Architecture, AI-powered threat detection, and biometric access controls. Automation is playing a vital role in optimizing operations. AI systems are managing energy consumption, predicting maintenance needs, and ensuring seamless uptime, reducing operational costs while improving efficiency. 7. Government support and policy initiatives The Indian government’s initiatives, such as the National Policy on Software Products and state-level incentives, are creating a favourable ecosystem for data centre growth. Many states are offering subsidies on land, power tariffs, and taxes to attract data centre investments. Additionally, the rollout of 5G and advancements in digital infrastructure are bolstering the demand for data centres. 8. Opportunities in tier 2 and tier 3 cities As data consumption grows beyond urban centres, data centre operators are expanding into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. These locations offer lower operational costs, ample land availability, and growing demand for digital services, making them attractive for future investments. Conclusion By 2025, India is set to be one of the most dynamic data centre markets in the world. The combination of regulatory support, technological innovation, and the country’s vast digital ecosystem is propelling this growth. From edge computing to green energy solutions, the future of data centres in India is vibrant and poised to support the nation’s digital aspirations. As these trends unfold, India’s data centre ecosystem will not only cater to domestic demand but also play a crucial role in the global digital economy.

Data Centers in 2025: What’s driving the boom in India? 

India welcomed the decision of ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon on Wednesday. In its statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the decision echoed India's stance of de-escalation in the region.

"We welcome the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon that has been announced. We have always called for de-escalation, restraint and return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy. We hope these developments will lead to peace and stability in the wider region," the statement said.

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Our statement on ceasefire announced between Israel and Lebanon:<a href="https://t.co/75xLsCZr2B">https://t.co/75xLsCZr2B</a> <a href="https://t.co/r3mMB25XbY">pic.twitter.com/r3mMB25XbY</a>
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1861679719810277414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the day, US President Joe Biden announced that he spoke to the Prime Ministers of Lebanon and Israel, who have accepted the US proposal to end the "devastating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah".

US President Joe Biden announced the news in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-ready-for-gaza-ceasefire-after-israel-hezbollah-deal-779623">Also read:&nbsp;Hamas ready for Gaza ceasefire after Israel-Hezbollah deal</a>

"Today, I have good news to report from the Middle East. I have spoken to the Prime Ministers of Lebanon and Israel. And I am pleased to announce: They have accepted the United States proposal to end the devastating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah", he wrote.

Backing the American President, in a statement issued by Israel, it was noted, "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke this evening with US President Joe Biden and thanked him for the US involvement in achieving the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon and for the understanding that Israel maintains freedom of action in enforcing it".

Earlier on November 2, amid escalating tensions in West Asia, the Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday said that the Indian Embassy in Israel is in constant touch with Indian nationals, adding that necessary travel advisories and other advisories have been issued for them to ensure their safety.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire: Netanyahu Says, 'Deal To Allow Israel To Focus Attention On Hamas, Iran'

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Speaking at a weekly press briefing on Saturday, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "20,000-30,000 people of Indian origin live in Israel. Our embassy there is in constant touch with them. We have issued necessary travel advisories and other advisories to ensure their safety."

In a statement, the MEA had reiterated its call to return to dialogue and diplomacy.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

India welcomed the decision of ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon on Wednesday. In its statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the decision echoed India's stance of de-escalation in the region.

India welcomed the decision of ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon on Wednesday. In its statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said that the decision echoed India's stance of de-escalation in the region. "We welcome the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon that has been announced. We have always called for de-escalation, restraint and return to the path of dialogue and diplomacy. We hope these developments will lead to peace and stability in the wider region," the statement said. Our statement on ceasefire announced between Israel and Lebanon:https://t.co/75xLsCZr2B pic.twitter.com/r3mMB25XbY — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) November 27, 2024 × Earlier in the day, US President Joe Biden announced that he spoke to the Prime Ministers of Lebanon and Israel, who have accepted the US proposal to end the "devastating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah". US President Joe Biden announced the news in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Also read: Hamas ready for Gaza ceasefire after Israel-Hezbollah deal "Today, I have good news to report from the Middle East. I have spoken to the Prime Ministers of Lebanon and Israel. And I am pleased to announce: They have accepted the United States proposal to end the devastating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah", he wrote. Backing the American President, in a statement issued by Israel, it was noted, "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke this evening with US President Joe Biden and thanked him for the US involvement in achieving the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon and for the understanding that Israel maintains freedom of action in enforcing it". Earlier on November 2, amid escalating tensions in West Asia, the Ministry of External Affairs on Saturday said that the Indian Embassy in Israel is in constant touch with Indian nationals, adding that necessary travel advisories and other advisories have been issued for them to ensure their safety. Watch | Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire: Netanyahu Says, 'Deal To Allow Israel To Focus Attention On Hamas, Iran' × Speaking at a weekly press briefing on Saturday, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "20,000-30,000 people of Indian origin live in Israel. Our embassy there is in constant touch with them. We have issued necessary travel advisories and other advisories to ensure their safety." In a statement, the MEA had reiterated its call to return to dialogue and diplomacy. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India welcomes ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, says 'always called for de-escalation'

Norway's Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener has said that her country can help India get more green energy and "support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has". Norway is a world leader in green energy, being Europe's largest producer of hydropower, expanding its onshore wind capacity, and giving a significant push to Green Hydrogen.&nbsp;

Speaking at WION Podcast, to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, she said, "when it comes to the climate change goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, it is very clear for us in Norway, and should be also in a lot of other countries, that if India does not reach its goals, the world will not reach its goals".

The ambassador listed the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) as a milestone for Norway. European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovernmental organization which has Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and &nbsp;Switzerland as its members.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-norway-grants-98-of-indian-exports-zero-customs-duties-under-tepa-698883">Also read:&nbsp;Exclusive: Norway grants 98% of Indian exports zero customs duties under TEPA</a>

Stener&nbsp;pointed out that Norway will ratify the trade agreement soon. She explained that because of this, "a lot of goods will get easier access, and they will be cheaper", giving the example of Norwegian Solomon.&nbsp;

She also spoke about her country's foreign policy, Norwegian&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;Jonas Gahr Støre and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;meeting in Brazil, among other things. Stener&nbsp;is the first foreign envoy to be at the WION Podcast. Here's the full interview:

Sidhant Sibal: My first question to you is about the India-Norway relationship if you can give us a broader picture...

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: I would say the Indian-Norway relationship is really growing. It's getting more important by the day. And this year, 2024 has been a really important year. We managed to conclude the Free Trade Agreement, the trade and economic partnership agreement, in March, together with the other EFTA countries. And now we are just looking into the ratification in Norway, which will happen in the next couple of months and that is the cornerstone, a milestone for us, as a very good basis for our businesses.

Sidhant Sibal: You talked about EFTA, if you can talk about in detail, about the positive aspects in terms of how it will help not only the EFTA country but also India?&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Norway Chairwoman of the standing committee speaks to WION | Exclusive Interview

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Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it will help the EFTA countries, and I can talk about my own country, Norway, in the sense that a lot of goods will get easier access, and they will be cheaper. For example, Norwegian salmon, there is already quite a high toll on that, which will go down to zero in a few years. So Norwegian salmon will be cheaper, and that will also cause a great interest from the Norwegian seafood industry to look to India as a market. And mentioning market India is, and will be, the biggest consumer market in the world. So, of course, for us as Norway, this is of tremendous importance. And also, that's why I'm saying Norwegian interests, Norwegian businesses have a lot of interest. The agreement, though, also, I think, is beneficial for India, when, when it eases a trade between our countries and some of the goods that are going to Norway will also be cheaper to export. But first and foremost, I think this treaty is the first one to have an investment chapter, and that investment chapter is very important, and it's important for us in Norway and Norwegian businesses who want to invest in India. But I also think it's a very big advantage for India to have those measures on the investment.

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of investments we can expect from Norway, especially from your sovereign wealth fund to India and any domains which you expect.&nbsp;

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: The Norwegian sovereign wealth fund will not be included by the agreement, because we're talking about foreign direct investments here. So I can say about the sovereign wealth fund, though they are also growing in India, and their investments are growing, and probably that will also continue. But on the foreign direct investment, those areas that are of priority for Norway and India in our relationship, particularly on green energy, and also on the maritime sector and the maritime industries. We have very particular technologies in Norway, because we have been an energy superpower, because we found oil and gas in the 1970s and we're now transforming it all to green energy, and we're using a lot of the same technologies, and we are quite cutting edge there. And also we have been a big shipping nation, and therefore we also have quite a good technology to contribute in that area as well. And then coming into India, this is offering something that we can't really find anywhere else, it's the scale that is here. So therefore these companies, with these cutting-edge technologies, will be really interested in investing. And that we see also is of interest here in India, in your growth, in your growth stories.

Sidhant Sibal: Norwegian technology and India scale, they can come together, and Norway is a leader when it comes to technology, clean energy. How can Norway help India in meeting its goal, especially when it comes to climate change goals?&nbsp;

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, when it comes to the climate change goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, it is very clear for us in Norway, and should be also in a lot of other countries, that if India does not reach its goals, the world will not reach its goals. And this is important to stop the climate change that we are seeing and to keep our planet. So, you know that scheme, this is something that we should all worry about, and I think it's really important that we succeed and that we actually also will be able to work on these issues together and to get more green energy into India and to support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has.&nbsp; 
 
Sidhant Sibal: We have a platform called the India Nordic Summit. It happened in Stockholm. Then it happened in Copenhagen. Is expected to happen in your country. How do you see this platform in furthering the goals between India and the Nordic region as a whole, which you're part of?

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, the Nordic Region, we are composed of countries. We have a lot of the same history. We work very closely together in the Nordic Council, some of us share more or less the same language, and it's a platform where we are cooperating a lot in many areas. Still combined, we are population-wise, quite small compared to India, but the economies of the Nordic countries combined, we are between 10 to 12 in the world. So we do have a lot to offer. And I think also India sees that, because we are also getting the interest back. And as you have been saying, there have been two Nordic India summits, and we are now looking into having the next one in Oslo quite soon.

Sidhant Sibal: Now many of our viewers will be watching this interview. If you can explain the Norwegian foreign policy to them. What is the Norwegian policy all about, if you can, perhaps, in a concise format, tell this to our viewers.

Ambassador May-Elin Stener:&nbsp;Well, the Nordic well, we are a country far up in the north. We are a small country. We are neighbouring Russia in the north, this is, of course, important points in our foreign policy, in the current climate that we see, we are staunch supporters of Ukraine, and we are condemning the full-scale invasion of Russia, because we see that this is wrong. A country cannot invade that it's not allowed according to international law. But also for us as a neighbouring country, we of course, feel this even more closely than we also had a very, very close relations in the Middle East, some of the viewers might remember, if they are old enough, the Oslo Accords from 1993 that was brokered by Norway between Israel and the Palestinians. And the most important in those Accords, maybe, were the two-state solutions. And it does not look very good for the two-state solution these days, but we are still working on trying to get the parties in the Middle East together so that we are able to see that we still think that there is no other way to two-state&nbsp;solution between. So those are two important pillars. When we look at the world how it is today, we already spoke about the climate change and working, working in the framework of the United Nations on the Paris Agreement, and discussing and seeing how we can get action to solve those problems and to look towards the cleaner future for everyone and below the 1.5% Celsius goal is, of course, also very important. So those are some issues important in our foreign policy. Apart from that, also, of course, we want to see ourselves, as a bridge leader. We've had, I mentioned the Middle East, but we've also had, had roles in peace, building and mediating roles between parties in conflicts in many places in the world, and that's an experience that we have used, and are also used in the world today, which is quite full of conflicts.

Sidhant Sibal: It's a very volatile world. But ma'am, my last question to you is about India's role. How does Norway seize India which is a large country in Asia, a democratic country, and a country which is rising very fast?

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it's exactly that we see India as a country that is rising very fast. The economy is now the fifth largest in the world, and it's also the fastest-growing economy. You soon looking to be the third largest, which makes you a big power in itself, but we also see that the way India is conducting its foreign policy, it's growing in importance, and it's a country that a lot of other countries, including mine, are looking to and want to have close relations with, for sure.

Sidhant Sibal: In addition to this, both the prime ministers met in Brazil at the G20 Summit. Anything specific that came out, we saw the Indian read-out talking about the various sectors. Anything from the Norwegian side. What do we expect, or what was the purpose of that very important meeting?

Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it was indeed a very important meeting, and it was really good to see that the two prime ministers met, my prime minister with Prime Minister Modi, and as I understand, they had a very good meeting and discussed precisely those issues that have been mentioned here, because they are peers in our bilateral relationship, particularly how to trade and economic partnership agreement implemented and to work on that. They also reconfirmed the importance of the Nordic India summit that will happen in Oslo next time. So it definitely just showed how important this relationship clearly is.

Norway's Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener has said that her country can help India get more green energy and "support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has".

Norway's Ambassador to India May-Elin Stener has said that her country can help India get more green energy and "support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has". Norway is a world leader in green energy, being Europe's largest producer of hydropower, expanding its onshore wind capacity, and giving a significant push to Green Hydrogen. Speaking at WION Podcast, to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal, she said, "when it comes to the climate change goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, it is very clear for us in Norway, and should be also in a lot of other countries, that if India does not reach its goals, the world will not reach its goals". The ambassador listed the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) as a milestone for Norway. European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovernmental organization which has Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland as its members. Also read: Exclusive: Norway grants 98% of Indian exports zero customs duties under TEPA Stener pointed out that Norway will ratify the trade agreement soon. She explained that because of this, "a lot of goods will get easier access, and they will be cheaper", giving the example of Norwegian Solomon. She also spoke about her country's foreign policy, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting in Brazil, among other things. Stener is the first foreign envoy to be at the WION Podcast. Here's the full interview: Sidhant Sibal: My first question to you is about the India-Norway relationship if you can give us a broader picture... Ambassador May-Elin Stener: I would say the Indian-Norway relationship is really growing. It's getting more important by the day. And this year, 2024 has been a really important year. We managed to conclude the Free Trade Agreement, the trade and economic partnership agreement, in March, together with the other EFTA countries. And now we are just looking into the ratification in Norway, which will happen in the next couple of months and that is the cornerstone, a milestone for us, as a very good basis for our businesses. Sidhant Sibal: You talked about EFTA, if you can talk about in detail, about the positive aspects in terms of how it will help not only the EFTA country but also India? Watch | Norway Chairwoman of the standing committee speaks to WION | Exclusive Interview × Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it will help the EFTA countries, and I can talk about my own country, Norway, in the sense that a lot of goods will get easier access, and they will be cheaper. For example, Norwegian salmon, there is already quite a high toll on that, which will go down to zero in a few years. So Norwegian salmon will be cheaper, and that will also cause a great interest from the Norwegian seafood industry to look to India as a market. And mentioning market India is, and will be, the biggest consumer market in the world. So, of course, for us as Norway, this is of tremendous importance. And also, that's why I'm saying Norwegian interests, Norwegian businesses have a lot of interest. The agreement, though, also, I think, is beneficial for India, when, when it eases a trade between our countries and some of the goods that are going to Norway will also be cheaper to export. But first and foremost, I think this treaty is the first one to have an investment chapter, and that investment chapter is very important, and it's important for us in Norway and Norwegian businesses who want to invest in India. But I also think it's a very big advantage for India to have those measures on the investment. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of investments we can expect from Norway, especially from your sovereign wealth fund to India and any domains which you expect. Ambassador May-Elin Stener: The Norwegian sovereign wealth fund will not be included by the agreement, because we're talking about foreign direct investments here. So I can say about the sovereign wealth fund, though they are also growing in India, and their investments are growing, and probably that will also continue. But on the foreign direct investment, those areas that are of priority for Norway and India in our relationship, particularly on green energy, and also on the maritime sector and the maritime industries. We have very particular technologies in Norway, because we have been an energy superpower, because we found oil and gas in the 1970s and we're now transforming it all to green energy, and we're using a lot of the same technologies, and we are quite cutting edge there. And also we have been a big shipping nation, and therefore we also have quite a good technology to contribute in that area as well. And then coming into India, this is offering something that we can't really find anywhere else, it's the scale that is here. So therefore these companies, with these cutting-edge technologies, will be really interested in investing. And that we see also is of interest here in India, in your growth, in your growth stories. Sidhant Sibal: Norwegian technology and India scale, they can come together, and Norway is a leader when it comes to technology, clean energy. How can Norway help India in meeting its goal, especially when it comes to climate change goals? Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, when it comes to the climate change goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, it is very clear for us in Norway, and should be also in a lot of other countries, that if India does not reach its goals, the world will not reach its goals. And this is important to stop the climate change that we are seeing and to keep our planet. So, you know that scheme, this is something that we should all worry about, and I think it's really important that we succeed and that we actually also will be able to work on these issues together and to get more green energy into India and to support the very ambitious goals that the Indian government has. Sidhant Sibal: We have a platform called the India Nordic Summit. It happened in Stockholm. Then it happened in Copenhagen. Is expected to happen in your country. How do you see this platform in furthering the goals between India and the Nordic region as a whole, which you're part of? Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, the Nordic Region, we are composed of countries. We have a lot of the same history. We work very closely together in the Nordic Council, some of us share more or less the same language, and it's a platform where we are cooperating a lot in many areas. Still combined, we are population-wise, quite small compared to India, but the economies of the Nordic countries combined, we are between 10 to 12 in the world. So we do have a lot to offer. And I think also India sees that, because we are also getting the interest back. And as you have been saying, there have been two Nordic India summits, and we are now looking into having the next one in Oslo quite soon. Sidhant Sibal: Now many of our viewers will be watching this interview. If you can explain the Norwegian foreign policy to them. What is the Norwegian policy all about, if you can, perhaps, in a concise format, tell this to our viewers. Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, the Nordic well, we are a country far up in the north. We are a small country. We are neighbouring Russia in the north, this is, of course, important points in our foreign policy, in the current climate that we see, we are staunch supporters of Ukraine, and we are condemning the full-scale invasion of Russia, because we see that this is wrong. A country cannot invade that it's not allowed according to international law. But also for us as a neighbouring country, we of course, feel this even more closely than we also had a very, very close relations in the Middle East, some of the viewers might remember, if they are old enough, the Oslo Accords from 1993 that was brokered by Norway between Israel and the Palestinians. And the most important in those Accords, maybe, were the two-state solutions. And it does not look very good for the two-state solution these days, but we are still working on trying to get the parties in the Middle East together so that we are able to see that we still think that there is no other way to two-state solution between. So those are two important pillars. When we look at the world how it is today, we already spoke about the climate change and working, working in the framework of the United Nations on the Paris Agreement, and discussing and seeing how we can get action to solve those problems and to look towards the cleaner future for everyone and below the 1.5% Celsius goal is, of course, also very important. So those are some issues important in our foreign policy. Apart from that, also, of course, we want to see ourselves, as a bridge leader. We've had, I mentioned the Middle East, but we've also had, had roles in peace, building and mediating roles between parties in conflicts in many places in the world, and that's an experience that we have used, and are also used in the world today, which is quite full of conflicts. Sidhant Sibal: It's a very volatile world. But ma'am, my last question to you is about India's role. How does Norway seize India which is a large country in Asia, a democratic country, and a country which is rising very fast? Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it's exactly that we see India as a country that is rising very fast. The economy is now the fifth largest in the world, and it's also the fastest-growing economy. You soon looking to be the third largest, which makes you a big power in itself, but we also see that the way India is conducting its foreign policy, it's growing in importance, and it's a country that a lot of other countries, including mine, are looking to and want to have close relations with, for sure. Sidhant Sibal: In addition to this, both the prime ministers met in Brazil at the G20 Summit. Anything specific that came out, we saw the Indian read-out talking about the various sectors. Anything from the Norwegian side. What do we expect, or what was the purpose of that very important meeting? Ambassador May-Elin Stener: Well, it was indeed a very important meeting, and it was really good to see that the two prime ministers met, my prime minister with Prime Minister Modi, and as I understand, they had a very good meeting and discussed precisely those issues that have been mentioned here, because they are peers in our bilateral relationship, particularly how to trade and economic partnership agreement implemented and to work on that. They also reconfirmed the importance of the Nordic India summit that will happen in Oslo next time. So it definitely just showed how important this relationship clearly is.

Norway ready to boost India's green energy goals: Ambassador Stener

Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is expected to travel to India from December 15th onwards, with the key day of engagement being December 16th, when&nbsp;he will meet top Indian leadership, including PM Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

This will be Dissanayake's first foreign visit abroad after taking charge as president in September this year.

The November parliamentary&nbsp;elections in Sri Lanka saw Dissanayake's National People's Power (NPP) coalition getting a landslide victory. The coalition got 159 seats out of the 225 seats, transforming the political landscape of the country since it is for the first time that a Sinhala-Buddhist party has&nbsp;won in the predominantly Tamil areas in the north.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lanka-australia-woo-indian-tourists-with-new-initiatives-778776">Also read:&nbsp;Sri Lanka, Australia woo Indian tourists with new initiatives</a>

He is the first top leader of Sri Lanka who is not from the nation's political elites, and his victory is seen as a sea change in the country's post-colonial political history.

After his win in the parliamentary elections, the Indian high commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha had met him. After congratulating him on his election victory, the Indian high commissioner also extended an invitation to the Sri Lankan leader to visit India.

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HC <a href="https://twitter.com/santjha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@santjha</a> called on President &amp; Leader of NPP <a href="https://twitter.com/anuradisanayake?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anuradisanayake</a> to congratulate on NPP’s victory in 🇱🇰 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ParliamentaryElections2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ParliamentaryElections2024</a>. As a fellow democracy,🇮🇳 welcomes the mandate &amp; remains committed to further strengthening bilateral ties for the benefit of our peoples. <a href="https://t.co/1qMEBn3uSO">pic.twitter.com/1qMEBn3uSO</a>
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL/status/1857383289688031352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Indian high commissioner had also called on Dissanayake when he became president and congratulated him on "winning the people's mandate". Both times, the Indian high commissioner was the first foreign envoy to meet him, which shows the strong ties between the two countries and continued engagement as well.

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HC <a href="https://twitter.com/santjha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@santjha</a> called on 🇱🇰 President-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/anuradisanayake?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anuradisanayake</a>. Conveyed greetings from India’s leadership and congratulated him on winning the people’s mandate. 🇮🇳 as 🇱🇰’s civilisational twin is committed to further deepen ties for the prosperity of the people of our two countries. <a href="https://t.co/l5qUxmAcA1">pic.twitter.com/l5qUxmAcA1</a>
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL/status/1837893440685621539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Anura Kumara Dissanayake, often referred to by his initials AKD, visited India in early 2024 and met India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, and NSA Ajit Doval. His upcoming visit will be as the President of Sri Lanka, with a big parliamentary majority.&nbsp;

In October, India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, had visited Sri Lanka, which was the first high-level engagement&nbsp;between India and Sri Lanka after the election of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka's New Parliament Convened, Speaker &amp; Others Elected

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During the visit, EAM Jaishankar met&nbsp;President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.&nbsp;

AKDs' visit will be key in continuing the India and Sri Lanka engagement with a focus on economic recovery and connectivity—both physical with talks of a land bridge&nbsp;and a petroleum pipeline to financial connectivity with India's UPI being extended to Sri Lanka.

India played a key role in the economic recovery of Sri Lanka during the massive economic crisis with bailout support of $4 billion.&nbsp;

Delhi provided currency swaps to help Sri Lanka manage its foreign exchange shortages and supplied diesel, petrol, and other essentials like food grains through credit lines, which were crucial for maintaining basic services.

However, the fishing issue remains a point of contention between the two nations. Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody have been an irritant, though both countries have sought to resolve it under the Joint Working Group mechanism.

India has also been calling for reconciliation on the Tamil issue and implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution that aims to give autonomy to the country's Tamil community.

Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is expected to travel to India from December 15th onwards, with the key day of engagement being December 16th, when he will meet top Indian leadership, including PM Narendra Modi.

Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is expected to travel to India from December 15th onwards, with the key day of engagement being December 16th, when he will meet top Indian leadership, including PM Narendra Modi. This will be Dissanayake's first foreign visit abroad after taking charge as president in September this year. The November parliamentary elections in Sri Lanka saw Dissanayake's National People's Power (NPP) coalition getting a landslide victory. The coalition got 159 seats out of the 225 seats, transforming the political landscape of the country since it is for the first time that a Sinhala-Buddhist party has won in the predominantly Tamil areas in the north. Also read: Sri Lanka, Australia woo Indian tourists with new initiatives He is the first top leader of Sri Lanka who is not from the nation's political elites, and his victory is seen as a sea change in the country's post-colonial political history. After his win in the parliamentary elections, the Indian high commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha had met him. After congratulating him on his election victory, the Indian high commissioner also extended an invitation to the Sri Lankan leader to visit India. HC @santjha called on President & Leader of NPP @anuradisanayake to congratulate on NPP’s victory in 🇱🇰 #ParliamentaryElections2024. As a fellow democracy,🇮🇳 welcomes the mandate & remains committed to further strengthening bilateral ties for the benefit of our peoples. pic.twitter.com/1qMEBn3uSO — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) November 15, 2024 × The Indian high commissioner had also called on Dissanayake when he became president and congratulated him on "winning the people's mandate". Both times, the Indian high commissioner was the first foreign envoy to meet him, which shows the strong ties between the two countries and continued engagement as well. HC @santjha called on 🇱🇰 President-elect @anuradisanayake. Conveyed greetings from India’s leadership and congratulated him on winning the people’s mandate. 🇮🇳 as 🇱🇰’s civilisational twin is committed to further deepen ties for the prosperity of the people of our two countries. pic.twitter.com/l5qUxmAcA1 — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) September 22, 2024 × Anura Kumara Dissanayake, often referred to by his initials AKD, visited India in early 2024 and met India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, and NSA Ajit Doval. His upcoming visit will be as the President of Sri Lanka, with a big parliamentary majority. In October, India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, had visited Sri Lanka, which was the first high-level engagement between India and Sri Lanka after the election of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Watch | Sri Lanka's New Parliament Convened, Speaker & Others Elected × During the visit, EAM Jaishankar met President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath. AKDs' visit will be key in continuing the India and Sri Lanka engagement with a focus on economic recovery and connectivity—both physical with talks of a land bridge and a petroleum pipeline to financial connectivity with India's UPI being extended to Sri Lanka. India played a key role in the economic recovery of Sri Lanka during the massive economic crisis with bailout support of $4 billion. Delhi provided currency swaps to help Sri Lanka manage its foreign exchange shortages and supplied diesel, petrol, and other essentials like food grains through credit lines, which were crucial for maintaining basic services. However, the fishing issue remains a point of contention between the two nations. Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody have been an irritant, though both countries have sought to resolve it under the Joint Working Group mechanism. India has also been calling for reconciliation on the Tamil issue and implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution that aims to give autonomy to the country's Tamil community.

Sri Lankan President Dissanayake's India visit begins on December 15

As peace is returning to the Kashmir Valley, it has opened doors for international events to be hosted in the Indian Union Territory. After the G20 Summit, Srinagar is now hosting the World Craft Council’s 60th Jubilee. Events organised by the government of Jammu and Kashmir aim to highlight the Valley’s rich craftsmanship and cultural heritage on a global platform.

On the banks of the world-famous Dal Lake, the artisans from across the world will be meeting Kashmiri artisans. The event has brought together 15 international delegates who are WCC members from diverse regions, including Kuwait, Australia, France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Central Asia, and beyond.&nbsp;

Alongside these delegates, artisans from various parts of the world have also gathered to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting a rich tapestry of global heritage.

“The relation between Kashmir and the World Craft Council has begun after Srinagar was designated as World Craft City. Having this designation is in direct benefit to the artisans and craft masters of Kashmir. It also puts the artisans on the Global map as the craft city. Two years ago, UNESCO also gave it the title of creative cities and now with the World Craft Council, this will all fall in the direction of bringing Kashmir in focus at a global level. But I have to say that Kashmiris are the most peaceful and hospitable people. Even in the street when we interact with people it just feels like home,”&nbsp;Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi, president of World Crafts Council International.&nbsp;

The delegates were taken on a Craft Safari through the historic lanes of the old city. To experience the intricate artistry and vibrant traditions of the Valley. Some of the artisans from across the world interacted and exchanged ideas with the local artisans.

“We have a family business of fabric production of fabric; this is camel wool with natural cotton and colors. So, our main concept is to do that fabric. We started with camel wool, later on to cotton and also added silk to it. Now we do home decor as well. I think it's very important to do such exchanges as I am aware of the Kashmiri crafts, we have our own technique of embroidery and this kind of event gives us the opportunity to exchange knowledge,” said Merjaan, a delegate from Turkmenistan.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiUrqu0ofqJAxUXn68BHWu0Au0QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-security-grid-tightened-ahead-of-winters-forces-have-input-about-infiltration-attempts-777359" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-security-grid-tightened-ahead-of-winters-forces-have-input-about-infiltration-attempts-777359&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUrqu0ofqJAxUXn68BHWu0Au0QxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Jammu and Kashmir: Security Grid tightened ahead of winters, forces have input about infiltration attempts</a>

These events also featured an expert panel discussion where renowned craft experts explored the contemporary challenges and opportunities in the global craft industry. A vibrant craft bazaar was also set up, showcasing exquisite creations from Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, offering artisans a platform to display and sell their work.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiUrqu0ofqJAxUXn68BHWu0Au0QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/local-recruitment-in-kashmir-terror-groups-hits-zero-majority-of-active-militants-now-foreign-764487" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/local-recruitment-in-kashmir-terror-groups-hits-zero-majority-of-active-militants-now-foreign-764487&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiUrqu0ofqJAxUXn68BHWu0Au0QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">India: Local recruitment of terror groups in Kashmir hits zero; majority of active militants now foreign</a>

“I think it's a very big opportunity for the Kashmir craft and the World Craft Council is here celebrating the 60th anniversary, this will bring all the attention of all the art lovers to Kashmir, and it will benefit the art in a big way. There are a lot of people who love craft and hand made things, all will now have to focus on Kashmir. It's a big thing and we should all celebrate it. It's also the recognition of our craft as well,” Tariq Dar, founder of Pashmkaar.

The event and celebrations are not only a testament to the timeless craftsmanship of Jammu and Kashmir but also a step forward in positioning the region as a global hub for artisanal excellence.

As peace is returning to the Kashmir Valley, it has opened doors for international events to be hosted in the Indian Union Territory. After the G20 Summit, Srinagar is now hosting the World Craft Council’s 60th Jubilee.

As peace is returning to the Kashmir Valley, it has opened doors for international events to be hosted in the Indian Union Territory. After the G20 Summit, Srinagar is now hosting the World Craft Council’s 60th Jubilee. Events organised by the government of Jammu and Kashmir aim to highlight the Valley’s rich craftsmanship and cultural heritage on a global platform. On the banks of the world-famous Dal Lake, the artisans from across the world will be meeting Kashmiri artisans. The event has brought together 15 international delegates who are WCC members from diverse regions, including Kuwait, Australia, France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Central Asia, and beyond. Alongside these delegates, artisans from various parts of the world have also gathered to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship, reflecting a rich tapestry of global heritage. “The relation between Kashmir and the World Craft Council has begun after Srinagar was designated as World Craft City. Having this designation is in direct benefit to the artisans and craft masters of Kashmir. It also puts the artisans on the Global map as the craft city. Two years ago, UNESCO also gave it the title of creative cities and now with the World Craft Council, this will all fall in the direction of bringing Kashmir in focus at a global level. But I have to say that Kashmiris are the most peaceful and hospitable people. Even in the street when we interact with people it just feels like home,” Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi, president of World Crafts Council International. The delegates were taken on a Craft Safari through the historic lanes of the old city. To experience the intricate artistry and vibrant traditions of the Valley. Some of the artisans from across the world interacted and exchanged ideas with the local artisans. “We have a family business of fabric production of fabric; this is camel wool with natural cotton and colors. So, our main concept is to do that fabric. We started with camel wool, later on to cotton and also added silk to it. Now we do home decor as well. I think it's very important to do such exchanges as I am aware of the Kashmiri crafts, we have our own technique of embroidery and this kind of event gives us the opportunity to exchange knowledge,” said Merjaan, a delegate from Turkmenistan. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Security Grid tightened ahead of winters, forces have input about infiltration attempts These events also featured an expert panel discussion where renowned craft experts explored the contemporary challenges and opportunities in the global craft industry. A vibrant craft bazaar was also set up, showcasing exquisite creations from Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, offering artisans a platform to display and sell their work. Also read: India: Local recruitment of terror groups in Kashmir hits zero; majority of active militants now foreign “I think it's a very big opportunity for the Kashmir craft and the World Craft Council is here celebrating the 60th anniversary, this will bring all the attention of all the art lovers to Kashmir, and it will benefit the art in a big way. There are a lot of people who love craft and hand made things, all will now have to focus on Kashmir. It's a big thing and we should all celebrate it. It's also the recognition of our craft as well,” Tariq Dar, founder of Pashmkaar. The event and celebrations are not only a testament to the timeless craftsmanship of Jammu and Kashmir but also a step forward in positioning the region as a global hub for artisanal excellence.

Kashmir opens doors for international events, hosts World Craft Council’s 60th anniversary

People living in the national capital New Delhi woke up on Saturday to a thick layer of smog and foggy weather after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city fell back into 'severe' category.

AQI measured in Delhi at 8:00 am was 420 as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). 
 
AQI in Anand Vihar was recorded as 457, while in Ashok Vihar it was 455 in Chandni Chowk it was 439 and RK Puram recorded an AQI 421 in falling in the 'severe' category, as per data from CPCB measured at 8 a.m.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is severe. Above this, it is considered a severe plus.

Meanwhile, the movement of trains stood delayed due to visibility issues.

Shaabi (Kanpur to New Delhi) was delayed by 39 minutes, Jansardhan Express from Anand Vihar terminal to Danapur was delayed by 661 minutes, Hazrat Nizamuddin Humsafar Express by 110 minutes, Runicha Express from Old Delhi to Jaisalmer stood delayed by 24 minutes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-slams-poor-governance-says-slogans-and-freebies-fail-city-infrastructure-778469">Delhi High Court slams poor governance, says slogans and freebies fail city infrastructure</a>

On November 22, the AQI recorded in the national capital was 371 and remained in the 'very poor' category as per CPCB.

Earlier on November 22, the Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai inspected the Narela-Singhu border to see the implementation of stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which enforces a ban on the operation of Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated medium goods vehicles (MGVs) and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), except for essential services.

Speaking to media persons, Gopal Rai highlighted the AAP government's efforts to mitigate air pollution in the city.

"The AAP government is continuously working to mitigate the level of pollution in Delhi. Entry has been banned for those vehicles that cause pollution, as Grap 4 is implemented. Today, we have received several complaints that vehicles are being allowed to enter Delhi without proper checking; hence I am here to inspect the same," Gopal Rai said.

Delhi has been battling severe air quality and thick smog for the past few weeks.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

People living in the national capital New Delhi woke up on Saturday to a thick layer of smog and foggy weather after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city fell back into 'severe' category.

People living in the national capital New Delhi woke up on Saturday to a thick layer of smog and foggy weather after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city fell back into 'severe' category. AQI measured in Delhi at 8:00 am was 420 as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). AQI in Anand Vihar was recorded as 457, while in Ashok Vihar it was 455 in Chandni Chowk it was 439 and RK Puram recorded an AQI 421 in falling in the 'severe' category, as per data from CPCB measured at 8 a.m. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is severe. Above this, it is considered a severe plus. Meanwhile, the movement of trains stood delayed due to visibility issues. Shaabi (Kanpur to New Delhi) was delayed by 39 minutes, Jansardhan Express from Anand Vihar terminal to Danapur was delayed by 661 minutes, Hazrat Nizamuddin Humsafar Express by 110 minutes, Runicha Express from Old Delhi to Jaisalmer stood delayed by 24 minutes. Also read: Delhi High Court slams poor governance, says slogans and freebies fail city infrastructure On November 22, the AQI recorded in the national capital was 371 and remained in the 'very poor' category as per CPCB. Earlier on November 22, the Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai inspected the Narela-Singhu border to see the implementation of stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which enforces a ban on the operation of Delhi-registered BS-IV and below diesel-operated medium goods vehicles (MGVs) and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), except for essential services. Speaking to media persons, Gopal Rai highlighted the AAP government's efforts to mitigate air pollution in the city. "The AAP government is continuously working to mitigate the level of pollution in Delhi. Entry has been banned for those vehicles that cause pollution, as Grap 4 is implemented. Today, we have received several complaints that vehicles are being allowed to enter Delhi without proper checking; hence I am here to inspect the same," Gopal Rai said. Delhi has been battling severe air quality and thick smog for the past few weeks. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: AQI in Delhi slips down to 'severe' after temporary 'very poor'

The ruling Mahayuti is poised to retain power in Maharashtra and the NDA also having an edge to form government in Jharkhand, exit polls predicted on Wednesday as polling concluded in the two states.

Most exit polls also predicted that Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) would put up a strong show in polls but is unlikely to cross the majority mark in the 288-member assembly.

According to the P-Marq exit poll, the Mahayuti alliance would win 137-157 seats whereas the Maha Vikas Aghadi would get 126-147 seats and others 2-8 seats.

Mahayuti includes BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP).

Matrize exit poll projected 150-170 seats for the Mahayuti alliance and 110-130 seats for Maha Vikas Aghadi. It said others could get 8-10 seats.

Chanakya Strategies projected that Mahayuti will win 152-150 seats, MVA 130-138 seats and others 6-8 seats

'Peoples Pulse' projected Mahayuti scoring a decisive victory by getting 175-195 seats. It said Maha Vikas Aghadi is poised to get 85-112 seats and 'others' winning 7-12 seats.

Times Now-JVC poll predicted that Mahayuti will win 150-167 seats, MVA 107-125 and others 13-14.

The Lokshahi Marathi Rudra predicted Mahayuti getting 128-142 seats, MVA 125-10 seats and others 18-33.

The majority mark in the Maharashtra assembly is 145 and outer limit of P-Marq exit poll predicted that MVA could touch majority if NDA is not able to pull enough weight.

Maharashtra polled 58.22 per cent votes till 5 pm on Wednesday.

The elections saw a keen contest between Mahayuti and MVA. It was first assembly poll in the state after splits in Shiv Sena and NCP.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held several rallies in Maharashtra to boost prospects of BJP and Mahayuti candidates. He strongly attacked Congress in his rallies and emphasised 'hum ek hain to safe hain' slogan.

Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP chief and Union Health Minister JP Nadda, Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari also campaigned the state.

Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar also campaigned extensively in the state.

Uddhav Thackeray lost his chief ministerial position due to split in his party in 2022 and the party has been keen to prove a point in the assembly polls. His key rival Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has also gained popularity due to welfare measures initiated by the Mahayuti government and there is a seeming clash over who is true inheritor of Balasaheb Thackeray's legacy.

NCP also suffered a split with Ajit Pawar joining the ruling alliance as Deputy Chief Minister in July last year. His uncle Sharad Pawar, who now heads NCP(SP), kept a tight campaign and is keen to see that there is no dent to his long legacy in politics.

A lot is at stake for Congress in the Maharashtra assembly polls after the party is seen to have bungled its prospect in the Haryana assembly polls earlier this year. BJP has formed its third successive government in Haryana.

The campaign saw catchy slogans, emotional appeals with factors of caste also coming into play. After the setback in the Lok Sabha polls earlier this year, the Mahayuti government took corrective measures and schemes as Ladki Behin Yojana gaining popularity.

Political Parties were plagued by the problem of rebels on several seats.

In Jharkhand, exit polls predicted that BJP-led National Democratic Alliance could come to power replacing the JMM-led alliance.

While most exit polls said that BJP-led alliance will have a shot at the government formation, some predicted that the ruling JMM-led alliance will be ahead.

Elections were held in two phases for 81 assembly seats in Jharkhand.

According to Chanakya Strategies exit poll, BJP-led NDA is likely to win 45-50 seats in the state while JMM-led alliance would win 35-38 seats. It said others could get 3-5 seats.

Peoples Pulse exit poll said that the NDA may get 44-53 seats, JMM-led alliance 25-37 seats and others 5-9 seats.

The BJP-led alliance includes All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU), Janata Dal (United), and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas).

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjNuND_mPCJAxX6afUHHTWPDrsQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-exit-polls-give-clear-edge-to-bjp-led-alliances-in-maharashtra-jharkhand-polls-778217" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-exit-polls-give-clear-edge-to-bjp-led-alliances-in-maharashtra-jharkhand-polls-778217&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNuND_mPCJAxX6afUHHTWPDrsQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Several exit polls give clear edge to BJP-led alliances in Maharashtra, Jharkhand polls</a>

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-led alliance includes Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist).

Matrize exit poll said NDA is poised to win 42-47 seats, INDIA bloc 25-30 seats and others 1-4 seats.

Times Now-JVC predicted 40-44 seats for NDA, 30-40 for INDIA bloc and one for others.

My Axis predicted that JMM-led alliance will retain power in Jharkhand by winning 53 seats. It predicted that NDA could win 25 seats, others one and Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JKLM) two seats.

The election is largely a fight between the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led alliance BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Leaders of all parties held extensive campaign in the state. PM Modi, Amit Shah, Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and JMM chief and Chief Minister Hemant Soren addressed rallies in the state.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjNuND_mPCJAxX6afUHHTWPDrsQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-election-exit-poll-close-contest-anticipated-between-ruling-mahayuti-and-opposition-mva-bloc-777742" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-election-exit-poll-close-contest-anticipated-between-ruling-mahayuti-and-opposition-mva-bloc-777742&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNuND_mPCJAxX6afUHHTWPDrsQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Exit polls: Close contest between Mahayuti, MVA in Maharashtra, neck-to-neck fight in Jharkhand</a>

Polling for the second phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections across 38 constituencies in 12 districts concluded on Wednesday, recording an approximate voter turnout of 67.59 per cent till 5 pm.

The first phase of the Jharkhand polls was held in 43 of 81 assembly seats on November 13. The results for all 81 constituencies will be declared on November 23, alongside those for Maharashtra Assembly elections and bypolls across several states.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The ruling Mahayuti is poised to retain power in Maharashtra and the NDA also having an edge to form government in Jharkhand, exit polls predicted on Wednesday as polling concluded in the two states.

The ruling Mahayuti is poised to retain power in Maharashtra and the NDA also having an edge to form government in Jharkhand, exit polls predicted on Wednesday as polling concluded in the two states. Most exit polls also predicted that Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) would put up a strong show in polls but is unlikely to cross the majority mark in the 288-member assembly. According to the P-Marq exit poll, the Mahayuti alliance would win 137-157 seats whereas the Maha Vikas Aghadi would get 126-147 seats and others 2-8 seats. Mahayuti includes BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP). Matrize exit poll projected 150-170 seats for the Mahayuti alliance and 110-130 seats for Maha Vikas Aghadi. It said others could get 8-10 seats. Chanakya Strategies projected that Mahayuti will win 152-150 seats, MVA 130-138 seats and others 6-8 seats 'Peoples Pulse' projected Mahayuti scoring a decisive victory by getting 175-195 seats. It said Maha Vikas Aghadi is poised to get 85-112 seats and 'others' winning 7-12 seats. Times Now-JVC poll predicted that Mahayuti will win 150-167 seats, MVA 107-125 and others 13-14. The Lokshahi Marathi Rudra predicted Mahayuti getting 128-142 seats, MVA 125-10 seats and others 18-33. The majority mark in the Maharashtra assembly is 145 and outer limit of P-Marq exit poll predicted that MVA could touch majority if NDA is not able to pull enough weight. Maharashtra polled 58.22 per cent votes till 5 pm on Wednesday. The elections saw a keen contest between Mahayuti and MVA. It was first assembly poll in the state after splits in Shiv Sena and NCP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held several rallies in Maharashtra to boost prospects of BJP and Mahayuti candidates. He strongly attacked Congress in his rallies and emphasised 'hum ek hain to safe hain' slogan. Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP chief and Union Health Minister JP Nadda, Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari also campaigned the state. Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar also campaigned extensively in the state. Uddhav Thackeray lost his chief ministerial position due to split in his party in 2022 and the party has been keen to prove a point in the assembly polls. His key rival Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has also gained popularity due to welfare measures initiated by the Mahayuti government and there is a seeming clash over who is true inheritor of Balasaheb Thackeray's legacy. NCP also suffered a split with Ajit Pawar joining the ruling alliance as Deputy Chief Minister in July last year. His uncle Sharad Pawar, who now heads NCP(SP), kept a tight campaign and is keen to see that there is no dent to his long legacy in politics. A lot is at stake for Congress in the Maharashtra assembly polls after the party is seen to have bungled its prospect in the Haryana assembly polls earlier this year. BJP has formed its third successive government in Haryana. The campaign saw catchy slogans, emotional appeals with factors of caste also coming into play. After the setback in the Lok Sabha polls earlier this year, the Mahayuti government took corrective measures and schemes as Ladki Behin Yojana gaining popularity. Political Parties were plagued by the problem of rebels on several seats. In Jharkhand, exit polls predicted that BJP-led National Democratic Alliance could come to power replacing the JMM-led alliance. While most exit polls said that BJP-led alliance will have a shot at the government formation, some predicted that the ruling JMM-led alliance will be ahead. Elections were held in two phases for 81 assembly seats in Jharkhand. According to Chanakya Strategies exit poll, BJP-led NDA is likely to win 45-50 seats in the state while JMM-led alliance would win 35-38 seats. It said others could get 3-5 seats. Peoples Pulse exit poll said that the NDA may get 44-53 seats, JMM-led alliance 25-37 seats and others 5-9 seats. The BJP-led alliance includes All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU), Janata Dal (United), and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas). Also read: Several exit polls give clear edge to BJP-led alliances in Maharashtra, Jharkhand polls Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-led alliance includes Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist). Matrize exit poll said NDA is poised to win 42-47 seats, INDIA bloc 25-30 seats and others 1-4 seats. Times Now-JVC predicted 40-44 seats for NDA, 30-40 for INDIA bloc and one for others. My Axis predicted that JMM-led alliance will retain power in Jharkhand by winning 53 seats. It predicted that NDA could win 25 seats, others one and Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JKLM) two seats. The election is largely a fight between the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led alliance BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Leaders of all parties held extensive campaign in the state. PM Modi, Amit Shah, Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and JMM chief and Chief Minister Hemant Soren addressed rallies in the state. Also read: Exit polls: Close contest between Mahayuti, MVA in Maharashtra, neck-to-neck fight in Jharkhand Polling for the second phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections across 38 constituencies in 12 districts concluded on Wednesday, recording an approximate voter turnout of 67.59 per cent till 5 pm. The first phase of the Jharkhand polls was held in 43 of 81 assembly seats on November 13. The results for all 81 constituencies will be declared on November 23, alongside those for Maharashtra Assembly elections and bypolls across several states. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Exit polls: Ruling Mahayuti poised to retain power in Maharashtra

A Reuters report suggests India is considering selling minority stakes in four state-run banks as part of an effort to comply with public shareholding requirements set by the securities and exchange board of India.&nbsp;

According to the report, the finance ministry is preparing to seek approval from the federal cabinet in the coming months for the sale of stakes in Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, UCO Bank, and Punjab and Sind Bank.&nbsp;

As of September 2024, the Indian government holds substantial stakes in these banks. SEBI mandates that listed companies maintain at least 25 per cent public shareholding, though it has granted an exemption to government-owned entities until august 2026.&nbsp;

The Indian government is reportedly planning to sell these stakes via an offer for sale on the open market, though specific details on the timing and size of the stake sale will depend on market conditions. The move follows similar efforts by other public sector banks, such as Punjab National Bank and Bank of Maharashtra, which recently raised significant capital through qualified institutional placements.&nbsp;

Shares of the affected banks saw modest gains of 3 to 4 per cent following the news. However, the report did not comment on whether the government would be able to meet SEBI’s deadline or seek a further extension.&nbsp;

This planned stake sale comes as India continues its push for financial sector reforms, including increasing private participation and improving capital flows in state-run banks. The outcome will be closely watched by both domestic and international investors.&nbsp;

A Reuters report suggests India is considering selling minority stakes in four state-run banks as part of an effort to comply with public shareholding requirements set by the securities and exchange board of India.

A Reuters report suggests India is considering selling minority stakes in four state-run banks as part of an effort to comply with public shareholding requirements set by the securities and exchange board of India. According to the report, the finance ministry is preparing to seek approval from the federal cabinet in the coming months for the sale of stakes in Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, UCO Bank, and Punjab and Sind Bank. As of September 2024, the Indian government holds substantial stakes in these banks. SEBI mandates that listed companies maintain at least 25 per cent public shareholding, though it has granted an exemption to government-owned entities until august 2026. The Indian government is reportedly planning to sell these stakes via an offer for sale on the open market, though specific details on the timing and size of the stake sale will depend on market conditions. The move follows similar efforts by other public sector banks, such as Punjab National Bank and Bank of Maharashtra, which recently raised significant capital through qualified institutional placements. Shares of the affected banks saw modest gains of 3 to 4 per cent following the news. However, the report did not comment on whether the government would be able to meet SEBI’s deadline or seek a further extension. This planned stake sale comes as India continues its push for financial sector reforms, including increasing private participation and improving capital flows in state-run banks. The outcome will be closely watched by both domestic and international investors.

India prepares bank stake sale amid reform push

Mumbai's Killa Court (Esplanade Court) on Sunday (Nov 17) sent two more accused in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, to police custody until November 21. The two men, identified as Salman Vohra and Akashdeep Singh, are alleged to have played significant roles in the plot, with Vohra accused of financing the operation and Singh implicated for corresponding with another person regarding the crime. &nbsp;

Advocate Shila Gupta, representing Salman Vohra, in a conversation with news agency ANI stated, "He has been accused of financing the murder. He was brought here after being arrested in Uttar Pradesh."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjz-cGa6uSJAxWpRmwGHZCxOi8QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/salman-khan-not-able-to-sleep-since-baba-siddiques-death-zeeshan-siddique-reveals-771430" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Salman Khan not able to sleep since Baba Siddique’s death, reveals Zeeshan</a>

Meanwhile, Shaikah Faizan, counsel for Akashdeep Singh, clarified that Singh "was brought in from the Punjab border, the alleged role of both the accused is different. Along with Pappu Singh, they allegedly communicated with each other through a device and pass on messages to each other. The other accused has been alleged to be supporting others financially. I cannot give more information as today itself they have been produced before the court. Today was their first remand". &nbsp;

Earlier, on November 12, the court had remanded Shiva Kumar, the primary shooter in the case, along with four others accused, to police custody until November 19. Their arrests were made by a joint operation of the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) and the Mumbai Crime Branch (Nanpara area) in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjz-cGa6uSJAxWpRmwGHZCxOi8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/baba-siddique-murder-mumbai-police-probing-social-media-post-claiming-lawrence-bishnoi-gang-role-767070" jsname="YKoRaf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Baba Siddique murder: Mumbai Police probing social media post claiming Lawrence Bishnoi gang role</a>

<h2>Case background</h2>

NCP leader Baba Siddique was fatally shot on October 12 near his son, MLA Zeeshan Siddique's office in Mumbai's Nirmal Nagar. The attack was carried out by three assailants linked to the gang of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who has since claimed responsibility for the murder. &nbsp;

Further investigations revealed that the Bishnoi gang had allegedly targeted another prominent Pune-based political leader following Siddique's murder.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai's Killa Court (Esplanade Court) on Sunday (Nov 17) sent two more accused in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, to police custody until November 21. The two men, identified as Salman Vohra and Akashdeep Singh, are alleged to have played significant roles in the plot, with Vohra accused of financing the operation and Singh implicated for corresponding with another person regarding the crime.

Mumbai's Killa Court (Esplanade Court) on Sunday (Nov 17) sent two more accused in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, to police custody until November 21. The two men, identified as Salman Vohra and Akashdeep Singh, are alleged to have played significant roles in the plot, with Vohra accused of financing the operation and Singh implicated for corresponding with another person regarding the crime. Advocate Shila Gupta, representing Salman Vohra, in a conversation with news agency ANI stated, "He has been accused of financing the murder. He was brought here after being arrested in Uttar Pradesh." Also read | Salman Khan not able to sleep since Baba Siddique’s death, reveals Zeeshan Meanwhile, Shaikah Faizan, counsel for Akashdeep Singh, clarified that Singh "was brought in from the Punjab border, the alleged role of both the accused is different. Along with Pappu Singh, they allegedly communicated with each other through a device and pass on messages to each other. The other accused has been alleged to be supporting others financially. I cannot give more information as today itself they have been produced before the court. Today was their first remand". Earlier, on November 12, the court had remanded Shiva Kumar, the primary shooter in the case, along with four others accused, to police custody until November 19. Their arrests were made by a joint operation of the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) and the Mumbai Crime Branch (Nanpara area) in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh. Also read | Baba Siddique murder: Mumbai Police probing social media post claiming Lawrence Bishnoi gang role Case background NCP leader Baba Siddique was fatally shot on October 12 near his son, MLA Zeeshan Siddique's office in Mumbai's Nirmal Nagar. The attack was carried out by three assailants linked to the gang of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who has since claimed responsibility for the murder. Further investigations revealed that the Bishnoi gang had allegedly targeted another prominent Pune-based political leader following Siddique's murder. (With inputs from agencies)

Baba Siddique murder case: Two more accused sent to police custody  

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight trial of its long-range hypersonic missile on November 16, 2024, from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha.

This hypersonic missile is designed to carry various payloads for ranges greater than 1500km for all the Services of the Indian Armed Forces.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-leaves-for-nigeria-brazil-and-guyana-to-attend-g20-meeting-776729">Indian PM Modi leaves for Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana; to attend G20 meeting</a>

The missile was tracked by various range systems, deployed in multiple domains. The flight data obtained from down-range ship stations confirmed the successful terminal manoeuvres and impact with a high degree of accuracy.

This missile has been indigenously developed by the laboratories of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad along with various other DRDO laboratories and Industry Partners.

The flight trial was carried out in the presence of senior scientists of DRDO and the Armed Forces.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces and the Industry for the successful flight trial of the country’s first long-range hypersonic mission, and termed it a historic achievement.

In a post on X, the Defence Minister described the event as a historic moment, emphasising that this major achievement has placed India among a handful of nations with the capability to develop such advanced and critical military technologies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-authorities-impose-curfew-in-imphal-west-district-amid-violent-protests-776720">Manipur authorities impose curfew in Imphal West District amid violent protests</a>

“India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting a flight trial of a long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations having capabilities of such critical and advanced military technologies. I congratulate Team DRDO India, our Armed Forces and the Industry for stupendous achievement,” Rajnath Singh posted on X.

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India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting flight trial of long range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations… <a href="https://t.co/jZzdTwIF6w">pic.twitter.com/jZzdTwIF6w</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1857980534011605222?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Secretary, Department of Defence R&amp;D and Chairman DRDO also congratulated team DRDO for their active contribution to this successful mission.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight trial of its long-range hypersonic missile on November 16, 2024, from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight trial of its long-range hypersonic missile on November 16, 2024, from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This hypersonic missile is designed to carry various payloads for ranges greater than 1500km for all the Services of the Indian Armed Forces. Also read | Indian PM Modi leaves for Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana; to attend G20 meeting The missile was tracked by various range systems, deployed in multiple domains. The flight data obtained from down-range ship stations confirmed the successful terminal manoeuvres and impact with a high degree of accuracy. This missile has been indigenously developed by the laboratories of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad along with various other DRDO laboratories and Industry Partners. The flight trial was carried out in the presence of senior scientists of DRDO and the Armed Forces. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces and the Industry for the successful flight trial of the country’s first long-range hypersonic mission, and termed it a historic achievement. In a post on X, the Defence Minister described the event as a historic moment, emphasising that this major achievement has placed India among a handful of nations with the capability to develop such advanced and critical military technologies. Also read | Manipur authorities impose curfew in Imphal West District amid violent protests “India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting a flight trial of a long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations having capabilities of such critical and advanced military technologies. I congratulate Team DRDO India, our Armed Forces and the Industry for stupendous achievement,” Rajnath Singh posted on X. India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting flight trial of long range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations… pic.twitter.com/jZzdTwIF6w — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 17, 2024 × Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO also congratulated team DRDO for their active contribution to this successful mission. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India successfully tests long-range hypersonic missile, marks 'major milestone'

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun are likely to meet next week in Laos on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Minister's Plus meeting (ADMM +). ADMM Plus is an annual meeting that includes ASEAN defence ministers and defence ministers of eight countries – Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia and the United States.

A request has been made by the Chinese side for the meeting. This is expected to be the first ministerial meeting between the Indian and Chinese sides since the Kazan meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which was seen as a breakthrough in the normalisation of ties.&nbsp;

The last meeting between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Chinese counterpart was in April 2023 in India. That time, the then Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu had travelled to Delhi for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO Defence Minister meeting. While the border issue dominated the meeting, the fact that Rajnath chose to do a namaste, instead of a handshake with his Chinese counterpart, showed that the ties remained frosty.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjA7dvN9tmJAxXXoa8BHRIJJKcQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chief-warns-against-chinas-tactics-along-lac-says-situation-stable-but-not-normal-763605" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chief-warns-against-chinas-tactics-along-lac-says-situation-stable-but-not-normal-763605&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjA7dvN9tmJAxXXoa8BHRIJJKcQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Indian Army Chief warns against China’s tactics along LAC, says, ‘situation stable, but not normal’</a>

Prior to the 2023 meet, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the then Chinese Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe met on the sidelines of the SCO meet in Russia's Moscow in 2020, just months after the Galwan incident. The deadly clashes in Galwan, Eastern Ladakh in June of that year left 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers dead.

A ministerial meeting will be seen as a positive element in ties, just a month after the Kazan meeting in October at the leaders' level. The October meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS summit was the first bilateral meeting between Indian and Chinese leaders since the Galwan incident which led to a downfall in the ties of the two Asian giants. Following the clashes, India had banned a number of Chinese apps and increased scrutiny on Chinese investments.&nbsp;

One of the key outcomes of the Kazan meeting was that the Special Representatives on the boundary question – Indian NSA Ajit Doval and China's Wang Yi will meet at an early date. Foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet at a later date. The Kazan thaw coincided with the patrolling agreement between India and China and disengagement in Depsang and Demchok at the Line of Actual Control or LAC. A revival in India-China ties could have positive ties in trading ties and comes ahead of Beijing's presidency of the SCO summit next year.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun are likely to meet next week in Laos on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Minister's Plus meeting (ADMM +).

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun are likely to meet next week in Laos on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Minister's Plus meeting (ADMM +). ADMM Plus is an annual meeting that includes ASEAN defence ministers and defence ministers of eight countries – Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia and the United States. A request has been made by the Chinese side for the meeting. This is expected to be the first ministerial meeting between the Indian and Chinese sides since the Kazan meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which was seen as a breakthrough in the normalisation of ties. The last meeting between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Chinese counterpart was in April 2023 in India. That time, the then Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu had travelled to Delhi for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO Defence Minister meeting. While the border issue dominated the meeting, the fact that Rajnath chose to do a namaste, instead of a handshake with his Chinese counterpart, showed that the ties remained frosty. Also read: Indian Army Chief warns against China’s tactics along LAC, says, ‘situation stable, but not normal’ Prior to the 2023 meet, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the then Chinese Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe met on the sidelines of the SCO meet in Russia's Moscow in 2020, just months after the Galwan incident. The deadly clashes in Galwan, Eastern Ladakh in June of that year left 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers dead. A ministerial meeting will be seen as a positive element in ties, just a month after the Kazan meeting in October at the leaders' level. The October meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS summit was the first bilateral meeting between Indian and Chinese leaders since the Galwan incident which led to a downfall in the ties of the two Asian giants. Following the clashes, India had banned a number of Chinese apps and increased scrutiny on Chinese investments. One of the key outcomes of the Kazan meeting was that the Special Representatives on the boundary question – Indian NSA Ajit Doval and China's Wang Yi will meet at an early date. Foreign ministers of the two countries are also expected to meet at a later date. The Kazan thaw coincided with the patrolling agreement between India and China and disengagement in Depsang and Demchok at the Line of Actual Control or LAC. A revival in India-China ties could have positive ties in trading ties and comes ahead of Beijing's presidency of the SCO summit next year.

Indian, Chinese defence ministers likely to meet next week in Laos

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Nov 11) met the first Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, Denis Manturov, and expressed his delight in the progress made by both countries in implementing decisions to boost the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.

Sharing a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Glad to meet Russia's First Deputy PM Denis Manturov today. Happy to see that teams on both sides are working together to implement decisions taken during my recent visits and meetings with President Putin to further strengthen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership."

The two leaders also had discussions on bolstering cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, economics, energy, and connectivity.

"The First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, H.E. Denis Manturov, called on the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today. They exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in various areas, including trade and economic ties, energy, connectivity among others," the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-invites-russian-president-putin-to-visit-india-for-india-russia-annual-summit-next-year-770054">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi invites Russian President Putin to Delhi for India-Russia Annual Summit next year</a>

"PM Modi welcomed the sustained and joint efforts being made by the teams in both sides for the implementation of the decisions taken during his recent visits and meetings with President Putin to further strengthen India- Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. PM extended his warm greetings to President Putin and said that he looked forward to continued exchanges with him," the PMO statement added.

On Tuesday, Manturov will join External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in the national capital for the 25th Session of the Intergovernmental Russian-Indian Commission on trade, economic, scientific, technical, and cultural cooperation, the Russian Embassy in India stated.

The session will address the progress of ongoing bilateral initiatives and explore new areas for collaboration.&nbsp;

During his visit, Manturov is also expected to hold a series of bilateral meetings with key Indian leaders to further discuss strategic cooperation.

Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi's Russia visit: 22nd India-Russia annual summit

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Last month, PM Modi attended the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, hosted under Moscow's presidency. He addressed two sessions during the summit. The Prime Minister described the BRICS Summit as "very productive" and thanked President Putin, the people of Russia and their government for their hospitality.

Prior to this, PM Modi also went on a visit to Russia. During his first bilateral visit in his third term as PM, he attended the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit with President Putin.

He was also awarded the prestigious "Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle" in recognition of his efforts to foster deeper ties between New Delhi and Moscow.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Nov 11) met the first Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, Denis Manturov, and expressed his delight in the progress made by both countries in implementing decisions to boost the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Nov 11) met the first Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, Denis Manturov, and expressed his delight in the progress made by both countries in implementing decisions to boost the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Sharing a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Glad to meet Russia's First Deputy PM Denis Manturov today. Happy to see that teams on both sides are working together to implement decisions taken during my recent visits and meetings with President Putin to further strengthen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership." The two leaders also had discussions on bolstering cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, economics, energy, and connectivity. "The First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, H.E. Denis Manturov, called on the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today. They exchanged views on enhancing cooperation in various areas, including trade and economic ties, energy, connectivity among others," the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement. Also read: PM Modi invites Russian President Putin to Delhi for India-Russia Annual Summit next year "PM Modi welcomed the sustained and joint efforts being made by the teams in both sides for the implementation of the decisions taken during his recent visits and meetings with President Putin to further strengthen India- Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. PM extended his warm greetings to President Putin and said that he looked forward to continued exchanges with him," the PMO statement added. On Tuesday, Manturov will join External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in the national capital for the 25th Session of the Intergovernmental Russian-Indian Commission on trade, economic, scientific, technical, and cultural cooperation, the Russian Embassy in India stated. The session will address the progress of ongoing bilateral initiatives and explore new areas for collaboration. During his visit, Manturov is also expected to hold a series of bilateral meetings with key Indian leaders to further discuss strategic cooperation. Watch | PM Modi's Russia visit: 22nd India-Russia annual summit × Last month, PM Modi attended the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, hosted under Moscow's presidency. He addressed two sessions during the summit. The Prime Minister described the BRICS Summit as "very productive" and thanked President Putin, the people of Russia and their government for their hospitality. Prior to this, PM Modi also went on a visit to Russia. During his first bilateral visit in his third term as PM, he attended the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit with President Putin. He was also awarded the prestigious "Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle" in recognition of his efforts to foster deeper ties between New Delhi and Moscow. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi meets Russian Deputy PM Denis Manturov, says 'happy' to see both sides working together

The Indian Navy is not new to India's projection of power in the Indian Ocean and beyond, but with each passing year, it has increased its foray and ability to deliver. One of the most pivotal moments in the past has been the Indian Navy's role in thwarting the coup in the Maldives in 1988 when it had deployed frigates Godavari and Betwa which intercepted mercenaries under Operation Cactus. The Time Magazine had a front page cover with the Indian Naval Ship Godavari with the header “Super India: The Next Military Power”.

Building on the successes, the Indian Navy has been executing a range of high-stakes humanitarian missions—from Search and Rescue (SAR) to Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO) and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). The missions reflect India's commitment to global humanitarian assistance and regional security. These are part of India's larger strategic objectives, including the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine and the “Neighborhood First” policy. Policies that are key to creating goodwill and trust in the region and beyond.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-influencer-tests-japans-cleanliness-by-walking-on-its-streets-in-white-socks-heres-the-result-775280">Indian influencer tests Japan's cleanliness by walking on its streets in white socks. Here's the result</a>

Among the key roles the Indian Navy has played in the first few years of this century was during the 2004 tsunami. That year, the Indian Navy responded rapidly, delivering life-saving aid and relief to affected nations, including Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and the Maldives. This elevated India's role as the first responder in the region. Since then, from the COVID crisis (2020) to Typhoon Yagi (2024), the role has significantly increased as Indian Navy assets play an important role in implementing Delhi's foreign policy objectives.

Under Mission Sagar, the Indian Navy extended its reach to deliver COVID-19 assistance to countries like the Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros, and Seychelles which included medical assistance teams, food aid, and other essential supplies. In the backdrop of Typhoon Yagi, under Operation Sadbhav, the Indian Navy delivered relief materials to Myanmar. Overnight loading of HADR pallets, including essentials like drinking water, rations, and medicines, was done onto an Indian naval ship destined for Yangon. This rapid mobilisation showcased the Navy's capability to respond swiftly to regional humanitarian crises, in a short time frame.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khalistani-terrorist-pannun-threatens-to-attack-indias-ram-mandir-warns-will-shake-foundations-of-ayodhya-775276">Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack India's Ram Mandir, warns 'will shake foundations of Ayodhya'</a>

Former Navy Chief Admiral (Retd) Karambir Singh has noted that these missions serve “dual purposes”—fostering regional stability while also enhancing India's stature as a security provider.

The Navy has also executed high-stakes missions, &amp; operations like Sukoon (2006) and Raahat (2015). Under Operation Sukoon, the Navy successfully evacuated Indian, Sri Lankan, and Nepali nationals from war-torn Lebanon while in Operation Raahat, saw the swift evacuation of over 4,600 Indian and foreign nationals from conflict-ridden Yemen. Amid the volatile situation in Gulf of Aden with Houthi attacks (2023-ongoing), the Indian Navy not only rescued Indian nationals, but nationals of countries like the Philippines and Pakistan.

Vice Admiral (Retd) Biswajit Dasgupta, former Eastern Naval Command Chief, emphasised that the Navy's humanitarian missions reinforce “universal values of compassion and neutrality, critical elements of soft power.”

The integration of satellite-based communication systems, UAVs, and real-time coordination networks ensure&nbsp;that India's SAR, NEO, and HADR missions are swift and highly efficient. One of the standout innovations is the use of advanced water purification systems aboard naval vessels, allowing them to produce potable water from seawater. These capabilities, coupled with real-time intelligence sharing and international collaboration, position the Indian Navy at the forefront of global humanitarian efforts.

The Indian Navy is not new to India's projection of power in the Indian Ocean and beyond, but with each passing year, it has increased its foray and ability to deliver.

The Indian Navy is not new to India's projection of power in the Indian Ocean and beyond, but with each passing year, it has increased its foray and ability to deliver. One of the most pivotal moments in the past has been the Indian Navy's role in thwarting the coup in the Maldives in 1988 when it had deployed frigates Godavari and Betwa which intercepted mercenaries under Operation Cactus. The Time Magazine had a front page cover with the Indian Naval Ship Godavari with the header “Super India: The Next Military Power”. Building on the successes, the Indian Navy has been executing a range of high-stakes humanitarian missions—from Search and Rescue (SAR) to Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO) and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). The missions reflect India's commitment to global humanitarian assistance and regional security. These are part of India's larger strategic objectives, including the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine and the “Neighborhood First” policy. Policies that are key to creating goodwill and trust in the region and beyond. Also read | Indian influencer tests Japan's cleanliness by walking on its streets in white socks. Here's the result Among the key roles the Indian Navy has played in the first few years of this century was during the 2004 tsunami. That year, the Indian Navy responded rapidly, delivering life-saving aid and relief to affected nations, including Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and the Maldives. This elevated India's role as the first responder in the region. Since then, from the COVID crisis (2020) to Typhoon Yagi (2024), the role has significantly increased as Indian Navy assets play an important role in implementing Delhi's foreign policy objectives. Under Mission Sagar, the Indian Navy extended its reach to deliver COVID-19 assistance to countries like the Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros, and Seychelles which included medical assistance teams, food aid, and other essential supplies. In the backdrop of Typhoon Yagi, under Operation Sadbhav, the Indian Navy delivered relief materials to Myanmar. Overnight loading of HADR pallets, including essentials like drinking water, rations, and medicines, was done onto an Indian naval ship destined for Yangon. This rapid mobilisation showcased the Navy's capability to respond swiftly to regional humanitarian crises, in a short time frame. Also read | Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack India's Ram Mandir, warns 'will shake foundations of Ayodhya' Former Navy Chief Admiral (Retd) Karambir Singh has noted that these missions serve “dual purposes”—fostering regional stability while also enhancing India's stature as a security provider. The Navy has also executed high-stakes missions, & operations like Sukoon (2006) and Raahat (2015). Under Operation Sukoon, the Navy successfully evacuated Indian, Sri Lankan, and Nepali nationals from war-torn Lebanon while in Operation Raahat, saw the swift evacuation of over 4,600 Indian and foreign nationals from conflict-ridden Yemen. Amid the volatile situation in Gulf of Aden with Houthi attacks (2023-ongoing), the Indian Navy not only rescued Indian nationals, but nationals of countries like the Philippines and Pakistan. Vice Admiral (Retd) Biswajit Dasgupta, former Eastern Naval Command Chief, emphasised that the Navy's humanitarian missions reinforce “universal values of compassion and neutrality, critical elements of soft power.” The integration of satellite-based communication systems, UAVs, and real-time coordination networks ensure that India's SAR, NEO, and HADR missions are swift and highly efficient. One of the standout innovations is the use of advanced water purification systems aboard naval vessels, allowing them to produce potable water from seawater. These capabilities, coupled with real-time intelligence sharing and international collaboration, position the Indian Navy at the forefront of global humanitarian efforts.

Indian Navy's HADR operations showcase India's growing influence

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